Ski Masks In Public Are Now Illegal In Philadelphia
by Alex Lloyd Gross
Mayor Kenney did not sign Bill 230510. He sent it back to council unsigned and now it becomes law. Effective immediately Ski masks are no longer allowed to be worn in public in the city of Philadelphia. While you still may be able to wear it in the cold , while walking down the street, if you go into any city owned building, or inside a school, or on SEPTA, you will face a fine of $250.00.
Last month, city council passed the bill by a vote of 13-2. Ski masks and balaclavas are fashionable to be worn by young people. Unfortunately, they are also fashionable to be worn by murderers, rapists and thieves. They obscure a face so it makes it harder for police and witnesses to identify who did the crime.
Alex Lloyd Gross File Photo Protesters engage in unlawful and criminal activity in Philadelphia. They are wearing ski masks and balaclavas for the sole purpose of obscuring their identities. It was about 75 degrees when this photo was taken.
Opponents say the ban is unconstitutional. It is a fact that putting on a ski mask does not mean you are going to commit a crime. They say it marginalizes young people and criminalized young people in the city. When it’s 20 degrees with a brisk wind, it is normal to see people wearing this for protection against the elements. When it’ is 68 degrees outside, wearing a ski mask is questionable. Why does someone need it?
In certain circles of law enforcement and military, Balaclavas are sued to conceal the identities of officers and soldiers. It is an intimidation effect. If someone wears one in the commission of a crime, they face a $2000.00 fine, on top of any other penalties.