PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker has signed most of the package of legislation that puts curbs on how ICE agents can operate in the city. One bill will become law without her signature.
The mayor signed six bills that mostly mirrored an executive order already in effect prohibiting discrimination based on immigration status, along with bills barring ICE operations on city-owned and community spaces.
On the advice of the Law Department, Parker did not sign the bill that forbids law enforcement from concealing their identities through masks, covered badges or unmarked cars. The Law Department said such efforts have lost in courts because the city doesn’t have authority over state and federal officers when they’re carrying out their duties.
However, the mayor didn’t veto the bill, so it will become law.
In a statement, the mayor said she supports City Council’s intent to ensure the safety of vulnerable city residents, and she is committed to “Philadelphia’s wonderfully diverse and vibrant immigrant communities.”
