Bill Would Fine Sheimos Truckers Who Don’t Bury

“It’s time to bring an end to this unspeakable chillul Hashem,” Felder said. “Every year we hear tragic stories of sheimos truck operators who willfully betray the public’s trust and desecrate G-d’s name. People who do the right thing in adherence of the Jewish law should not become the unwitting victims of nefarious and selfish individuals who seek to profit from the publicgood will. This legislation is intended to distinguish between honest and deceitful brokers.”

The bill will require those wishing to operate a sheimos truck to obtain a permit from the New York City Department of Consumer Affairs, and to provide advanced proof of access to a proper burial ground. Civil penalties range from a minimum of $1,000 up to $5,000.

The provisions of the bill will require prospective operators to provide their legal name, address and photo ID in order to obtain the permit. Applicants will be required to pay an administrative fee of $50. Permits must be posted in a conspicuous manner on the truck, and operators will also be required to provide customers with a printed receipt containing their permit number, name, address and the amount paid. The legislation will apply to cities of one million or more.

Felder plans to circulate for sponsors when legislative session resumes after Pesach on April 23.

This article appeared in print on page 20 of the April 9th, 2014 edition of Hamodia.