Mayor Bowser Announces Emergency Legislation to Amend Districts Juvenile Curfew Laws
Mayor Muriel Bowser announced the Juvenile Curfew Emergency Amendment Act of 2025, aimed at extending curfew hours for juveniles to bolster public safety. Under this legislation, the juvenile curfew will be set to 11 PM during July and August 2025 and will now include 17-year-olds. The Chief of Police will be empowered to create extended curfew zones, which can enforce curfews starting at 7 PM for up to 30 days if necessary. This initiative comes in response to troubling patterns of violence and unlawful gatherings among youth in areas such as the Wharf and Navy Yard. Bowser highlighted the importance of taking action to prevent disorder before it starts, ensuring community safety.
The legislation will be submitted for consideration at the upcoming Council meeting on July 1. Additionally, the District continues to support positive youth engagement through summer programs like the Mayor Marion S. Barry Summer Youth Employment Program. The move reflects a broader effort to balance safety measures with opportunities for youth recreation.