Philadelphia City Council members voted 13-2 in favor of a bill that prohibits the wearing of ski masks, also known as balaclavas, in certain public places. The controversial decision met opposition from the ACLU, organizations serving children and teenagers, and progressive lawmakers.

The approved legislation allows the city to impose a $250 fine on individuals caught wearing ski masks in parks, schools, daycares, city-owned buildings, and on public transit. However, exceptions have been made for religious expression and activities protected under the First Amendment, such as protesting.

The bill was introduced by Councilmember Anthony Phillips, who represents parts of Northwest and Northeast Philadelphia. Phillips cited several incidents of violence committed by individuals wearing facial coverings as the inspiration behind the legislation. The Philadelphia Police Department supported the bill, believing it would aid in crime-solving efforts.

During his speech, Phillips, who is Black and the youngest member of Council, emphasized that the legislation was not meant to perpetuate negative stereotypes about Black men. Rather, he framed the vote as a choice between condoning lawlessness or demanding decency and a higher quality of life in the community.

Councilmember Jamie Gauthier, a Democrat, initially intended to vote in favor of the bill, recognizing its potential as a tool for law enforcement. However, after listening to testimony from young individuals who opposed the ban, Gauthier changed her stance. She expressed concern that the legislation would further criminalize and marginalize young Black men within the city, demanding more engagement, listening, and support for them.

Several residents, including individuals wearing ski masks, spoke out against the ban during the council session. Activist Jetson Cruz argued that the legislation would provide police with an additional reason to stop and harass people, while Solomon Furious Worlds, a staff attorney at the ACLU of Pennsylvania, believed it would disproportionately impact young people of color and could lead to unjustified stops and frisks by law enforcement officers.

Despite the opposition, the bill passed City Council and will now be sent to Mayor Jim Kenney for approval. If signed, the ban on ski masks will go into effect immediately. The Mayor's Office is currently reviewing the legislation.

In addition to the ski mask ban, this week's City Council session was marked by ongoing tension between Council members and the Kenney administration over the city budget. Negotiations were disrupted as some members sought additional funding for their priorities, causing delays in approving the budget bills. Discussions centered around various funding allocations, including parks and recreation centers, an anti-poverty program, and St. Christopher's Hospital.

As negotiations continue, the Philadelphia City Council and the Kenney administration are working towards a resolution to approve the budget and reconcile accounts. The city's finances, while stable, face potential risks as federal aid funds are projected to be depleted by the end of next year.

Council members aim to reach a consensus on the budget in the coming days, but if the stalemate persists, negotiations may extend into Friday or even next week.