Does being an employee of the City's police or fire department count as membership in a professional organization for purposes of the City Code Section 20-604(3)(d)?
No. Code Section 20-604(3)(d) provides an exception to the Code’s gift restriction such that a City employee may accept gifts without limitation if they result solely from the employee’s membership in “a bona fide charitable, professional, educational, labor, or trade organization.” This list was plainly meant to refer to entities outside of City government, not City departments.
These advice tidbits are for reference only. They are not intended as legally protective guidance or binding interpretation of laws within the Board's jurisdiction. You can request individualized informal advice by contacting BOEGCStaff@phila.gov or clicking the Ask for Advice button on the Board's website.