WASHINGTON, D.C., July 23 – AAHOA (Asian American Hotel Owners Association), the largest hotel owners association in the world, expresses deep concern over the recently introduced New York City Council bill that would prohibit hotels from operating without an additional license, including preventing the use of subcontractors for core functions such as housekeeping, front desk, and security.
The proposed legislation’s blanket approach, coupled with its rapid progression and lack of consultation with hospitality experts, fails to consider the unique operational needs of New York City hotels. This would pose substantial challenges in maintaining consistent operations under the new mandates.
“Fast-tracking such a significant proposal without input from the hospitality industry is counterproductive,” said AAHOA Chairman Miraj S. Patel. “If passed, this bill would impose undue burdens on hotel owners. One of the most pressing issues facing the hospitality industry today is the labor shortage. By limiting access to approved, available subcontractors for essential functions like housekeeping, maintenance, and security, a hotel’s ability to maintain consistent operations will be tougher in this labor market, especially for smaller hotels. Limiting this ability would severely hinder our operations and worsen the workforce shortage.”
“We urge the New York City Council to slow down and engage with all stakeholders,” said AAHOA President & CEO Laura Lee Blake. “The hotel industry is already one of the strongest leaders in addressing the scourge of human trafficking in our country, and hoteliers are upholding strict health and safety standards for the benefit of their guests, especially with the changes implemented as a result of the pandemic. By working together, we can find balanced solutions that support the city’s economic health and address the workforce challenges without placing draconian burdens on hotel owners that will negatively impact their ability to keep their doors open. Collaboration is key.”
