New York City Mayor Eric Adams has signed legislation intended to improve the safety of hotels for employees and visitors and boost the city’s tourism industry.
Proponents say Intro. 0991, the Safe Hotels Act, will set new, stronger standards around safety, staffing, and cleaning in the city’s hotels. Big Apple officials said it also bolsters licensing requirements to help enforce worker and guest protections.
New York City is estimated to see 64.5 million visitors in 2024 and the highest tourism levels in the city’s history in 2025.
“Our top priority from day one has been to keep people safe, and that includes protecting workers and tourists at our city’s hotels,” Adams said in an announcement. “That’s why we are expanding protections for the working-class New Yorkers who run our hotels and the guests who use them.
“The Safe Hotels Act ensures that our hotels are safe, healthy, and clean, and that our tourism industry can thrive and create jobs across the city,” Hizzoner added. “This is a win for working people, the tourism and hotel industry, and all New Yorkers and guests.”
Hotels must receive a license from the city. Establishments must ensure that staff — including front desk staff at all hotels and security guards at large hotels — are on-site whenever a guest stays at the hotel.
The legislation also requires hotel operators to train employees on recognizing human trafficking and equip employees with panic buttons. Hotels must also clean guest rooms daily unless a visitor declines the service.
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