Levy bill targets big retailers who open on Thanksgiving

Suffolk County Executive Steve Levy said Wednesday he would introduce legislation requiring large retail stores of more than 7,500 square feet to be closed from noon until 5 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day, beginning next year.

"Thanksgiving is a traditional American holiday that is uniquely distinguished as a family day," Levy said. "Certain stores do not recognize some employees' need to take time off from work, so this legislation is designed to help preserve an aspect of Thanksgiving that makes it such a special, bonding occasion."

Levy said his proposed law is modeled after legislation that has been enacted in the State of Maine. Stores with no more than 7,500 square feet of interior customer selling space, excluding back-room storage, office and processing space, would be exempt.

Levy noted that noted that when some of the larger "box" establishments began opening on Thanksgiving, smaller retailers also were forced to open so they wouldn't be at a competitive disadvantage.

"This Catch-22 has increasingly put a strain on those smaller businesses whose owners would prefer to be at home, spending time with their families," Levy said in a statement.

"Several years ago, it started as just one or two large retailers opening," Levy explained. "Now, many others are feeling compelled to open as well, or risk losing out to competitors. This legislation would help even the playing field."

Under the measure, violators would be subject to a civil penalty of a minimum of $300, but not to exceed $1,000 for a first violation. Each subsequent violation would be subject to a minimum fine of $500, but not to exceed $1,500.

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