Overview

• New York State Assembly Bill A08336, introduced by Assemblymember Tony Simone (D-NY), would require all restaurants at rest stops along the New York State Thruway to remain open seven days a week. However, the bill only applies to future restaurant contracts, not those currently in operation.
• Chick-fil-A, known for its policy of closing on Sundays, has been specifically mentioned in discussions about the bill. The company currently operates seven locations on the Thruway, with three more planned.
• Simone has stated that the bill is intended to provide travelers with a variety of food options, not to target Chick-fil-A specifically. However, some critics argue that the bill infringes on Chick-fil-A's religious principles.
• Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) has threatened to introduce legislation to withhold federal funds from any city or state that forces Chick-fil-A to stay open on Sundays, calling the New York bill 'war'.
• Legal experts suggest that Chick-fil-A could potentially sue New York if the bill passes, arguing that it violates the company's religious principles.