Philadelphia · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Philadelphia public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
FOP contract public hearings (Resolution 260932)
Council authorized the hearings required before executing a labor agreement with the police union — a step in the police contract bargaining process.
Police forensics laboratory financing
Council advanced a service agreement with the Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development to finance a new state-of-the-art police forensics lab in West Philadelphia — a $40 million bond Councilmember Ahmad said will speed crime clearance.
Disability access: personal care attendant fees
A 13-year advocacy fight paid off: state human relations guidance now says venues can't charge people with disabilities for a second ticket for their personal care assistant. Council honored advocate Michael Anderson of The Arc of Philadelphia.
Carriage horse ban
The bill restricting carriage horse businesses was amended and held for a final vote next week. Animal welfare advocates urged a full ban; one horse owner warned of lost jobs and history.
City employee de-escalation and emergency training
Bass won approval for hearings on mandatory conflict resolution/de-escalation training and CPR/overdose-awareness training for all city workers, building on her district's 'Playing It Safe' rec center program.
2026 Hazard Mitigation Plan
Mayor Parker transmitted a resolution adopting the 2026 Hazard Mitigation Plan as the city's official plan; it was introduced and placed on next week's final passage calendar.
Felony murder law reform
Council recognized the state Supreme Court's decision striking down Pennsylvania's felony murder rule and called on the General Assembly to pass SB387.
SAVE Act and voter registration
Council urged the U.S. Senate to reject the SAVE Act, arguing it would create registration barriers for married women, seniors and naturalized citizens. Two speakers backed the SAVE Act, and Councilmember O'Neill registered the lone no vote.
First Amendment and Jerome Richardson resolution
Council adopted a resolution backing Jerome Richardson against federal prosecution, over sharp public disagreement — one speaker called it persecution of a protester, another said he violated the FACE Act by disrupting a church service.
Puppy breeding moratorium
Bass's bill would impose a temporary moratorium on breeding and transferring puppies to ease shelter overcrowding at ACCT Philly; it drew passionate testimony on both sides and was amended before a final vote next week.