Lynch
PROVIDENCE, R.I. - Rhode Island Attorney General Patrick Lynch is asking for temporary restraining orders against 10 health clubs that he says have failed to register with the state.
Four of clubs are Gold's Gym franchises, and Lynch wants to see a $1,000 civil penalty enforced against each of the 10.
"Despite the notice given to them, the 10 health clubs cited continue to flout the law," Lynch said. "Although that alone demands action on our part, the seriousness of the situation is compounded because annual registration requires all health clubs to provide documentation of their compliance with zoning, building, and fire codes. Any health club placing its customers at risk cannot be allowed to operate.
"Until they properly register with us, we have to safeguard the safety and welfare of all consumers using their services."
Lynch's motions will be heard May 17 in Providence County Superior Court. He'll request the defendants be enjoined from operating their clubs until they obtain the necessary inspections and properly register with Lynch's office.
The Gold's Gym locations are Bald Hill Road in Warwick, East Greenwich, Pawtucket and North Providence.
Other health clubs listed as defendants are: Curves for Women, Park Avenue, Cranston; Power Shack Gym of Woonsocket; Powerhouse Gym/TJK Fitness of Cranston; Lady of America, in West Warwick and in Cranston; and One on One The Personal Training Studio, Wakefield.
Lynch said he has already sent the cubs certified letters in mid-March, advising them their registrations had expired. Initial registration only costs $100, and renewing it is $50 annually.