The passage and signing into law of the Safe Hotels Act on November 4, 2024, is a huge victory for hotel workers, union and non-union alike, across every corner of the city. Offering unprecedented protections for workers and the guests you serve, this law will set a new standard to improve the workplace environment and traveler experience.
Here are just some of the requirements in the Safe Hotels Act:
Hotels must be licensed in order to operate. This gives the city enforcement power to ensure hotels are being operated responsibly and fairly.
Hotels must provide panic buttons to workers who enter guest rooms, which can be pressed to summon help in case of assault or other emergencies.
Hotels must directly employ their workers in housekeeping and front desk operations. This prevents the use of subcontracting, which often results in wage theft and other worker mistreatment.
Hotel workers who speak out about unsafe conditions or violations of the law are protected against retaliation or punishment by their bosses.