NEW YORK (AP) — A New York City Council member is proposing legislation that would regulate the costumed characters posing for photos in Times Square.
The rules would include how far they have to stand from subway entrances and stores. They’d also be required to wear photo IDs.
Andy King said Monday that he’ll introduce the bill at a Council meeting on Wednesday.
He said the impetus came from a slew of incidents in which the people in costume harassed and even assaulted tourists over tipping.
Under the bill, they’d have to apply to the city and pass a background check.
Critics say the rules are unnecessary and would make life harder for people who are working for very little money.
