Two months ago NYC Department of Health announced its intention to shut down several A-list nightclubs, where the young, glamorous and wealthy were constantly violating local anti-smoking regulations. Thus, several hottest nightlife spots were warned about possible closure.
The most arrogant violator was M2 Ultra Lounge, according to the NYC HD spokesperson. Inspectors who visited M2 several times during recent months reported about many smokers lighting up on the dance floor without any problems, with even the club personnel selling them loose cigarettess.
Now, the Mayor’s office is one step closer to shutting down one of the biggest and most luxurious clubs in the City, as part of the new and excessive move to cancel the licenses of the venues that are considered to encourage an illegal activity, i.e. smoking.
The venue, M2Ultra Lounge is currently on a trial at a court which is used by the officials when trying to take away property. If the City manages to win he case, it would become the first time a NYC business is closed only for violating smoking ban.
Local authorities as well seek taking other businesses to court in order to cancel their food licenses.
It has been not a big secret that many nightlife venues, including both small bars and major exquisite clubs have allowed patrons to puff in their premises.
Health Department spokesperson admitted the greater part of the City’s businesses comply with the legislation prohibiting smoking in all enclosed public places. However, there are several high-end venues that constantly flout that law. The offenders have been fined several times, with penalties varying from $200 to $2000, but it was not a major issue for the places attended the upper class.
However, the M2Ultra Lounge is the most inveterate offender, as the evidence shows club visitors smoking and having cigarette packs on their tables. The case will be heard by Judge Alessandra Zorgniotti.
The club’s attorney stated that the case is controversial, since the inspectors coming to the club, could not be aware if the personnel had attempted to convince the visitors to put out their smokes. Robert Bookman, M2 Ultra Lounge lawyer presented reports, demonstrating that the bouncers had driven out several visitors for lighting up on the dance floor and sacked two waiters for vending loose cigarettess.
The lawyer said the city has a cynical approach to the enforcement of smoking ban, stating that the officials have to punish smokers, instead of the venues.
Health Department spokesperson argued that their responsibility is to guarantee the licensed venues comply with the law; and added that going after the clubs is a more effective method of ensuring compliance with the ordinance.