Firefighters barred from raising money at intersection

CHESAPEAKE, Va. (AP) - A new city ordinance will prohibit Chesapeake firefighters from raising money for charity at busy intersections like they’ve done in past years.

The Virginian-Pilot reports that city officials passed a new ordinance earlier this month aimed at blocking panhandling at intersections, but would also prohibit charitable collections.

Firefighters raise money every year for charity at busy intersections with a “Fill the Boot” campaign. They’ve raised $100,000 this year for the Muscular Dystrophy Association.

The new ordinance goes into effect next month. Fire Capt. Scott Saunders said the department will look at new ways to raise money.