Nassau County passed legislation today that will make it safer for people with food allergies to eat out.

County Executive Laura Curran signed into law the Food Allergy Restaurant Safety Ordinance, which was introduced in July by Nassau Legislator Joshua Lafazan, D-Woodbury.

The ordinance requires that at least two employees at all food service establishments under the jurisdiction of the Nassau County Department of Health receive food allergen training through a program approved by the health commissioner. The training must be renewed every five years.

In addition, food service establishments must post no fewer than two signs that, among other requirements, invite patrons to alert staff members about their food allergies and dietary requirements. The signs will also identify the number of employees that have completed food allergen training and provide directions for the response to be taken if a customer has a food allergy or experiences an allergic reaction.

Non-compliance with the signage and training mandates is punishable by a fine of $50 to $500.

“I believe this proposal would greatly improve the quality of life for thousands of people in Nassau County and give them peace of mind that they can go to a restaurant without winding up in the hospital,” Lafazan told LIBN in August.

According to Food Allergy Research & Education, about 32 million Americans have food allergies, and about 200,000 people in the United States require emergency medical care for allergic reactions to food each year.

“Arm in arm with parents, children, doctors and advocates, Nassau County is proclaiming today and for all days going forward to strive to be the most allergy-friendly municipality in America,” Lafazan said in a statement. “I am grateful to County Executive Curran and all of my colleagues in the Legislature for supporting this crucial legislation.”