Ski mask ban becomes law in Philadelphia despite no signature from Mayor Kenney

Ski mask ban passes in Philly, heads to Mayor Kenney for signature

The newly passed bill would prohibit people from wearing ski masks in parks, schools and on public transit. It now moves on to Mayor James Kenney for his potential signing.

PHILADELPHIA - Leave the ski masks at home! The face coverings are officially banned in several public places across Philadelphia.

City Council passed the ski mask ban during a vote earlier this month, sending the bill to Mayor Jim Kenney's desk for signature.

The mayor has not signed or vetoed the bill. However, it still lapsed into law Thursday after the council's final session of the year.

Now, the city can fine people for wearing ski masks in public parks, schools, city-owned buildings and on public transit.

Those fines start at $250, increasing to $2,000 if a crime is committed.

However, there are exceptions for religious expression and "First Amendment activities," such as protesting.

The bill's author, Councilmember Anthony Phillips, says he "looks forward to making it successful by creating a city where young people no longer feel the need to cover their faces and are willing to let society see all of their greatness."

SEPTA already enforces a similar ban, which gives the option to remove them, or be escorted off SEPTA property.