Overview

• 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.