Ski Masks, Other Full Face Coverings Banned In Philly Under New Law

PHILADELPHIA — A measure banning ski masks, balaclavas, and other full face coverings in Philadelphia has been approved by the City Council.

The council Thursday voted 13-2 to band certain facial coverings from being worn in certain spaces.

Proposed in June this year by Ninth District Councilman Anthony Phillips, the new legislation imposes a $250 fine on anyone who wears a full face covering in "school building, recreation center, daycare, park, City-owned building, or on any mode of public transportation, including, but not limited to, buses, trains, trolleys, and subways."

The banned masks are defined in the bill as "a close-fitting garment covering the whole head and face, with holes for the eyes, mouth, or nose, or any combination of the three."

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Passing the bill amended the "Public Spaces - Prohibited Conduct" section of the city's code.

Additionally, the bill includes a minimum fine of $2,000 for anyone who commits a crime while wearing a ski mask, balaclava, hood, or other items to conceal their identity.

There are exceptions to the rule in the bill.

The law will not be applied to those who are:

• wearing a traditional holiday costume;
• engaged in the celebration of a religious holiday;
• engaged in a trade or employment where they are worn for the purpose of ensuring the physical safety of the wearer;
• in a theatrical production;
• protecting themselves from the elements while participating in a winter sport;
• or lawfully engaged in First Amendment activities.