WHEREAS, Drug-related crimes have had a damaging impact on Philadelphia communities, and the sale and distribution of drug paraphernalia in local stores has played a role in fueling these issues; and
WHEREAS, Continuing to enforce the ban on stores who illegally sell drug paraphernalia (bongs, glass pipes, and other related items as outlined in Bill No. 210159) and other related items is paramount to supporting safety initiatives aimed at reducing harmful effects on public health, safety, and our communities; and
WHEREAS, Collaboration with the Department of Licenses and Inspections, the Philadelphia Police Department, and the Philadelphia Department of Public Health has been essential in prohibiting the sale of drug paraphernalia in stores that lack proper zoning reviews, permits, and community support; and
WHEREAS, The removal of outdated reference from the Zoning Code and incorporating specific terms as provided in the Bill No. 210159 enabled the Philadelphia Department of Licenses and Inspections to carry out more robust inspections and enforcement actions; and
WHEREAS, It is essential to assess whether current enforcement strategies against drug paraphernalia stores are effectively addressing the needs of Philadelphia communities, while also identifying any gaps or challenges in limiting the illegal sale of drug paraphernalia across the city; and
WHEREAS, Stores that illegally sell drug paraphernalia are not only breaking the law, and not considering the concerns of the community, but they are also inviting crime into Philadelphia neighborhoods. By ensuring all businesses that sell drug paraphernalia have the proper licenses and community approval, it will help to make our City safer.
RESOLVED, THAT THE CITY COUNCIL OF PHILADELPHIA Hereby authorizes the Committee on Licenses & Inspections and the Committee on Public Safety to hold hearings on enforcement against drug paraphernalia stores to better protect and improve the health and safety of our communities.
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