Snap Curfew Passes City Council But Mayor Vows To Veto

The Chicago City Council approved a controversial youth curfew ordinance allowing police to impose curfews for minors anywhere in the city, passing with a 27-22 vote. Mayor Brandon Johnson announced plans to veto the ordinance, expressing concerns about potential over-policing and civil rights violations, particularly affecting Black and Brown communities. The ordinance aims to address violent gatherings of teenagers, known as "teen trends," which have escalated in recent years. Currently, Chicago's youth curfew starts at 10 p. m.

, while the new measure would allow for curfews with a 30-minute notice to youth in affected areas. Critics argue that the 30-minute notice is insufficient and lacks clarity regarding its implementation. Additionally, the ordinance gives the police superintendent sole authority to impose curfews, a change from the original requirement for joint approval with the deputy mayor. City officials and proponents assert that prior notice of curfews will be communicated through social media and city offices. The ordinance’s fate now hinges on whether the City Council can gather enough votes to override the mayor's veto.