Move FM Global News

PHILADELPHIA, Pennsylvania: In a measure supporters claimed will increase public safety amid high violent crime rates, Philadelphia City Council passed legislation banning ski masks in some public areas, but opponents argue it will unfairly target people without proof of any crimes being committed.

The legislation passed on November 30 with a 13-2 vote, and will now go for review to Democratic Mayor Jim Kenney, who “looks forward to our ongoing work with City Council on the urgent matter of ensuring public safety,” a spokesperson said.

The measure will ban ski masks or balaclavas, which are defined as close-fitting coverings over the entire head with holes only for the eyes, nose or mouth, in public spaces, such as schools, recreation centers, parks and city-owned buildings, as well as on public transportation.

A US$250 fine would be imposed against anyone violating the law, except for religious dress and protests.

The legislation comes as the sixth-largest city in the U.S. has been struggling with violent crime, posting a record number of homicides in 2021, with most being gun-related. That number fell from 562 to 516 in 2022 but was still higher than pre-COVID-19 pandemic levels.

As social support initiatives were suspended during the COVID-19 pandemic, major U.S. cities have experienced rises in crime rates, though these have started to decrease to pre-pandemic levels.

Philadelphia’s move is in the opposite direction of New York City, which relaxed a law prohibiting masks during the COVID-19 pandemic.