The calendar has officially turned to 2026 and with that comes a number of state and city law changes, including dozens of bills passed in Philadelphia, write Mike D’Onofrio and Isaac Avilucea for AXIOS Philadelphia.
Last year, Philadelphia City Council passed about 240 bills.
Now, Philadelphia school officials are required to notify parents and guardians within 24 hours anytime a weapon is discovered at a school within the district.
“Our schools are safe havens and we strive to create safe and welcoming environments to assist all of our students, regardless of their zip codes,” said Philadelphia School District spokesperson Monique Braxton.
There is also a new paper bag fee in the city. A bill was passed last year that will force Philadelphians to pay 10 cents for each paper bag needed while checking out groceries.
Councilmember Mark Squilla said the law likely won’t be enforced until the fall. However, the first few months of the year will be used to educate the public and grocery stores about the law’s impact.
Meanwhile, a bill passed in December would disallow third-party businesses to take tables at Philadelphia restaurants and then resell them.
It remains to be seen, however, if the bill will actually become a law.
Read more about the new Philly laws that could go into effect at AXIOS Philadelphia.
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Editor’s Note: This post was originally published on PHILADELPHIA.Today in January 2026.
