Report: Starbucks to Close Public Restrooms

Will this mean public urination in New York will make a comeback? Starbucks is planning on closing the public restrooms in its New York locations, the New York Post reported Wednesday. The reason? Long lines for employees, who have to compete with coffee-drinking customers with lots of time on their hands. Any food establishment with more than 19 seats is legally required to provide a public restroom, but many New York Starbucks have fewer than 20 seats. The Seattle-based company has no stated restroom policy, although many New Yorkers have grown accustomed to having the public bathroom available.