JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Jacksonville lawmakers are pushing for a potential ban that targets people who use intersections to ask for money.
Republican council members Kevin Carrico and Al Ferraro sponsor the bill that would make it illegal to use the public right of way for commercial activity. The bill cites pedestrian and vehicle safety.
It appears the bill is on track to go before the full City Council in a week. The Transportation, Energy and Utilities Committee will take up the bill on Tuesday.
READ: Ordinance 2022-574
The bill allows permits for charitable groups, but only for three days a year. It also allows for law enforcement, fire and rescue or other government employees or contractors “acting within the scope of their lawful activity.”
Councilman Michael Boylan says it’s all about safety, not limiting efforts to raise money by certain groups. Boylan is a member of the Neighborhoods, Community Services, Public Health and Safety Committee.
That was the first committee to approve the bill and move it forward.
Some are concerned the new legislation would not hold up in court. That could be part of the discussion at next Tuesday’s City Council meeting.