The Store Door Law

[spinozany]

The [NYC] City Council is expected to pass a law tomorrow making it illegal for large stores to keep their doors open with the air-conditioning running.  Business owners say the practice attracts customers on hot days, but many see it as a waste of energy

Comments

[unshavengod]

I'd vote no in principle, but I like the idea.... cities really exaggerate the conflicts between "personal freedom" and "hurting the populace with your freedom".

Wasted AC could mean more brownouts, more heat in the city (AC just moves heat and makes the local air hotter), and thus higher electricity rates...

so in the sense that a successful store makes more money by opening the door, does the city suffer in an amount greater than the extra profits?

I'd guess that the profits are worth it if the store-owner can afford the electricity.... Maybe the electricity rates are subsidized? that would cause a huge problem..

[spinozany]

Energy conservation.

[spinozany]

When their actions affect the commons, it is an appropriate area for governmental action. See, e.g. Calebresi, "The Tragedy of the Commons."

FDA, mandatory education, speed limits, etc, etc. Are you serious, or trolling?