Philly law firm considering federal suit against city over ban on feeding homeless outside

CP has learned that the Philadelphia law firm Kairys, Rudovsky, Messing & Feinberg LLP, known for its litigation over "Stop and Frisk" policies and other civil rights cases, is considering filing a lawsuit against the city of Philadelphia for the ban on serving free meals in city parks, announced by Mayor Michael Nutter about two months ago.

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Philly law firm considering federal suit against city over ban on feeding homeless outside

POSTED: Wednesday, May 16, 2012, 12:59 PM
Filed Under: Hall Monitor | News

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CP has learned that the Philadelphia law firm Kairys, Rudovsky, Messing & Feinberg LLP, known for its litigation over "Stop and Frisk" policies and other civil rights cases, is considering filing a lawsuit against the city of Philadelphia for the ban on serving free meals in city parks, announced by Mayor Michael Nutter about two months ago.

Attorney Paul Messing would not comment other than to confirm to CP that his firm is investigating the matter, and litigation is under consideration.

Mark McDonald, a spokesman for the mayor, told CP that  the city has "received notice of intent to sue," but had no other comment on the matter.

Brian Jenkins, the executive director of Chosen 300 Ministries, which serves meals both indoors and outside, and who has been a leading critic of the ban, also declined to comment on any potential lawsuit other than to make the general statement that he would view a lawsuit as a "last step" and hopes the city is open to compromise on the issue. 

Jenkins has frequently called the ban "unconstitutional," saying it violates the religious freedom of those who feel "called by God" to serve meals outdoors.

In 2008, the American Civil Liberties Union won a lawsuit against the city Orlando for a similar ban.

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