Bill > A01531

This bill expands the legal offense of "unlawfully dealing with a child in the second degree" by adding a new provision that makes it illegal for owners, lessees, managers, or employees of an establishment to allow a child under 18 years old to enter or remain in a place that exclusively serves alcoholic beverages and does not have an on-site kitchen for preparing food. The bill specifically targets establishments where the primary function is selling alcohol for on-site consumption, and where the majority of the non-residential space is used for this purpose. This means that bars or similar venues without a kitchen that serves food would be prohibited from allowing anyone under 18 to enter, with some existing exceptions such as being accompanied by a parent or guardian. The offense is classified as a class B misdemeanor, which means it is a criminal offense that can result in potential legal penalties. The bill amends the existing penal law and will take effect on the first of November following its enactment, aiming to provide additional protections for minors by restricting their access to alcohol-focused establishments.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A1531