Vending

NAMA clarifies New York law on reopening essential services

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June 3, 2020

A New York state law for reopening non-essential businesses only applies to offices, auto dealers and commercial building management, according to Wes Fisher, manager of government affairs for the National Automatic Merchandising Association.

NAMA has called on Gov. Andrew Cuomo to change the language in  interim guidance on safe break room reopening due to its impact on convenience services.

"We have identified that this language only applies to non-essential businesses that are offices, commercial building management, and auto dealers," Fisher said in a recent email about the reopening guidance.  

Language in the law as written affects the vending and coffee service industries. Phase two specifically identifies offices, auto sales and commercial building management.

Additionally, three phase two documents include language suggesting a closure of vending and communal coffee stations. The language is as follows:

Offices: Responsible parties should close non-essential amenities and communal areas which promote gathering or are high-touch (e.g., vending machines, communal coffee machines).

Commercial building management: In the space they control, responsible parties should close non-essential amenities and communal areas that promote gathering or are high-touch (e.g. vending machines, communal coffee machines) and encourage tenants to do the same.

Vehicle sales, leases and rentals: Responsible Parties must close amenities including self-serve bars, vending machines and cafes and dining areas.

NAMA has provided a link to allow its members to urge clarity on the safe operation of onsite convenience services. To access the link, click here.

For an update on how the coronavirus pandemic is affecting convenience services, click here.