Mayor Bowser Announces Emergency Legislation to Amend Districts Juvenile Curfew Laws

Mayor Muriel Bowser announced the Juvenile Curfew Emergency Amendment Act of 2025, which extends curfew hours for juveniles and provides the Metropolitan Police Department with more flexible enforcement tools. The new curfew will be set at 11 PM for July and August 2025, and the legislation will now apply to 17-year-olds. The Chief of Police will have the authority to establish curfew zones that can start as early as 7 PM for 15 consecutive days, potentially extending to 30 days based on safety concerns. This move responds to recent incidents of violence involving youth gatherings in areas such as the Wharf, Navy Yard, and U Street. Bowser highlighted the importance of acting against dangerous trends while also ensuring safe recreational spaces for young people.

The council will review the legislation during its July 1 meeting. The District aims to balance public safety with positive youth engagement through various summer programming initiatives. Increasing police presence in neighborhoods is part of broader efforts to deter criminal conduct among juveniles.