NY Bill Proposes 7-Day Operation for Highway Rest Stop Restaurants, Sparks 'War' Declaration from Sen. Lindsey Graham

The proposed legislation, which specifically mentions Chick-fil-A, has been met with strong opposition from Senator Lindsey Graham, who views it as an infringement on religious freedom.

New York State Assembly Bill A08336, introduced by Assemblyman Tony Simone, proposes that all restaurants operating in service areas on New York state highways should remain open seven days a week. The bill specifically mentions Chick-fil-A, which is traditionally closed on Sundays.
The bill would not affect existing restaurants but would apply to all future contracts. Currently, seven Chick-fil-A franchises operate at New York rest stops.
Senator Lindsey Graham has strongly opposed the bill, declaring 'war' and threatening to withhold federal funds from any city or state that requires Chick-fil-A to stay open on Sunday.
Graham's opposition is based on the belief that the proposed legislation infringes on the religious freedom of Chick-fil-A's founders, who chose to close on Sundays in accordance with their Christian faith.
The bill's proponents argue that it is designed to maximally benefit the public and travelers who rely on these service areas, by ensuring a full variety of food options every day of the week.