Nightclub security mandates enacted in New York, Boston

Mar 13, 2007 4:13 PM

The New York City Council has passed measures that require security cameras at nightclub doors and make it easier to shut down businesses that sell fake identifications.

The new measures came after the abduction of graduate student Imette St. Guillen, a Boston native, who was raped and killed last February. An unlicensed bouncer at a Manhattan bar where she had been drinking was charged in her death.

The Boston City Council also has unanimously passed a law to require background checks for bouncers and training for security staffers at bars that have three or more reported cases of bouncer-on-patron violence.

The New York City Council bills expand the nuisance abatement law to allow the city to shut down businesses making or selling fake IDs and allow independent monitors for clubs with serious or repeat safety violations. Clubs that commit serious violations would be permitted, at their own expense, to hire safety monitors in lieu of license suspension.

The bills also require security cameras at club entrances and exits. Recordings would be stored in a restricted area and only authorized personnel would have access to film.

"In recent months the city's night life industry has been marred by a number of high profile tragedies and acts of violence -- many of which were linked to problems with club security and management practices," Council Speaker Christine Quinn said. "This package of nightlife safety legislation aims to help solve those problems and to ensure that nightlife in New York City is safe and secure."

Robert Bookman, counsel for the New York Nightlife Association, says bills requiring cameras and providing for independent monitors apply only to establishments with city-issued cabaret licenses. He estimated that about 200 dance clubs would be affected.

"Most of our members already have security cameras," Bookman adds.

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