Philadelphia elected officials could be allowed to keep their existing jobs if they decide to run for state or federal office under legislation that was approved by City Council on Thursday.
The resign-to-run rule, which requires city officials to step down from their positions before they can launch a campaign for a new role, has been in place since the Home Rule Charter was adopted in 1951. The new bill, which passed with a 15-1 vote, would remove that requirement for all elected officials, except the mayor, who seek office outside Philadelphia government.
The decision of whether to change the longstanding rule will now be put forth as a ballot question in the May election…