Updated 01/01/2010 02:37 PM
Solid Metal Gates For Stores Are Out With The Old Year
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A new city law that takes effect today forces business owners to use see-through metal mesh gates instead of solid metal gates over their storefronts.
Instead, they must use see-through metal mesh gates.
Proponents of the new law say it will help police and firefighters responding to emergencies because they can see through the gates.
The new gates are also a deterrent to graffiti.
Businesses who already have the solid metal gates have until 2026 to replace them.
The new gates cost about $10,000, or about 10 percent more than the old ones.
Twelve statewide laws signed by Governor David Paterson also took effect today.
One law provides retirement benefits for new entrants in certain public retirement systems, another strengthens the state's identity theft laws and a third establishes clear rules for determining when livery drivers are employees or independent contractors.