For those not picking up on Philadelphia area stories, this might be of
interest, perhaps especially to those researching and writing in the area.
For some time, religious and other organizations have been feeding homeless
people at outdoor sites in Philadelphia. Citing public health and other
concerns, the city banned the practice. The religious organizations have
challenged the ban, claiming that it violates their (and their members') First
Amendment free exercise rights ("What they will not compromise on, however, is
what they described as a God-directed mission to minister to the needs of
homeless people where they live - on the parkway.")
Yesterday testimony concluded, and oral argument will now take place.
Enforcement of the ban has been stayed pending the litigation.
http://www.philly.com/philly/news/breaking/20120710_Nutter__Ban_on_feeding_part_of_plan_to_end_homelessness.html
Jim Maule
Professor of Law
Villanova University School of Law
ma...@law.villanova.edu
http://vls.law.villanova.edu/prof/maule
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