Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina announced his intent to propose a federal measure that would cut off funding to any municipal or state entity mandating that Chick-fil-A alter its policy of Sunday closure.
In a bold statement on the social media platform X, previously known as Twitter, Graham declared his stance in response to a New York legislative effort that seeks to require certain outlets of the popular fast-food chain to operate daily, counter to its established practice of Sunday closure rooted in the company’s religious values.
The New York State Assembly’s recent bill, which specifically targets food vendors at rest stops under the purview of the New York State Thruway Authority, aims to ensure these establishments are open every day to provide a full spectrum of dining options for residents and travelers within the state.
Senator Graham, in his fiery posts, defended the Atlanta-based fast-food chain’s tradition of Sunday closure as a reflection of American values and religious freedom. He underscored his readiness to battle any government action that attempts to compel Chick-fil-A to deviate from its founder’s principles.
The contentious New York proposal, citing Chick-fil-A’s practice as its impetus, argues that service areas meant for travelers should not house businesses that do not operate full-time. The rationale behind the bill suggests that such closures represent a disservice to those dependent on the availability of these services throughout the week.
State Representative Tony Simone, the bill’s proponent, advocates for the legislation as a means to enhance the range of culinary choices for travelers, particularly during holiday seasons.
Chick-fil-A, with a history stretching back to 1946 and encompassing roughly 3,000 U.S. outlets, has consistently observed Sunday as a day of rest or worship, a tradition established by its founder, S. Truett Cathy, and maintained as a corporate policy to date.