To better protect young Philadelphians, the City Council has approved Bill #240007, dubbed the "Youth Name, Image, and Likeness Protection," led by At-Large Councilmember Isaiah Thomas. This initiative seeks to offer education and counseling to the city's youth looking to license their publicity rights. According to the Philadelphia City Council's weekly report, Mayor Cherelle Parker has been presented with the bill for her approval or veto.
The Council session on March 7 was not only focused on the youth but also saw changes to the city's landscape. Zoning designations in the First and Sixth Council Districts are being amended through Bills #240064, #240065, and #240066, which now await the mayor's signature. The meeting was also significant for the introduction of Resolution #240125 by Council President Kenyatta Johnson, aimed at combating food insecurity, a pressing issue that afflicts over 210,000 Philadelphians. "This issue disproportionately impacts people of color as 22% of Black households and 23% of Hispanic households struggle to access enough healthy food," the report emphasizes.
The City Council also took a moment to recognize Philadelphia Eagles Center Jason Kelce for his philanthropic efforts as he steps away from professional football. His contributions through the Make The World Better Foundation and his (Be) Philly Foundation were acknowledged in Resolution #240162 with praise from Council President Johnson, who said, "It is important that all citizens in our city come together and address this issue of gun violence," as stated in a written statement published by the City Council.
However, the issue of public safety was also a prime concern during the session. With a series of shootings around SEPTA bus stops stirring public outrage, Councilmembers expressed their fury over the violence. President Johnson held a "Peace Not Guns" meeting to explore proactive measures to tackle the city's gun crisis, an issue that has maintained Philadelphia in a state of emergency, "in his opinion." Mayor Parker is expected to deliver her Fiscal Year 2025 Budget address at the next City Council meeting on March 14, which also might include a vote on Councilmember Quetcy Lozada's Bill #240013—regulating business hours in a section of Kensington to curb nighttime disturbances.
March 14th will not only be about financial planning for the city. The Council will also turn its attention back to the street environment. Council President Johnson and Mayor Parker are working closely with Police Commissioner Bethel on a comprehensive crime reduction plan that is soon to be unveiled, promised while grappling with tragedies like the fatal shooting of 27-year-old Sawee Kofa and 17-year-old Dayemen Taylor, and other separate incidents that have shaken the community to its core.
