New York votes tough ATM bill.

The New York City Council passed a bill on Wednesday that will impose the nation's strictest security standards for automated teller machines.

Approved by 40 to 3, the bill requires improved door locks, surveillance cameras, and in some cases armed guards at the city's 1,038 ATM sites.

Local bankers argued that compliance would cost them $60 million a year, for steps that may not deter crime.

The bank's one vocal ally, Sheldon Leffler, chairman of the Public Safety Committee, offered five amendments to water down the bill. Each was beaten on a voice vote.

He tried to send the bill back to committee, a move also rejected 40 to 3.

Members were not swayed by an opinion from the state bar association, requested by Mr. Leffler, that courts are likely to overturn the ATM law because it impinges on federal regulators' authority overbanks and thrifts.

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