Mayor Bowser Announces Emergency Legislation to Amend Districts Juvenile Curfew Laws

Mayor Bowser has announced the Juvenile Curfew Emergency Amendment Act of 2025, designed to combat rising violence associated with youth gatherings. The legislation modifies curfew hours to 11 pm for July and August and extends curfew applicability to 17-year-olds. It grants the Chief of Police authority to create temporary extended curfew zones, starting at 7 pm, for up to 30 days if safety concerns arise. This move responds to numerous incidents involving juveniles engaging in unlawful behavior in prominent areas like the Wharf and Navy Yard. The District's approach includes increasing police presence to deter negative conduct while ensuring safe recreational spaces for youth.

Councilmember Pinto highlighted the need for both enforcement and programming to support positive youth engagement. The legislation will be considered at the Council's July 1 meeting. Community safety and youth empowerment are central to this initiative, reflecting a proactive stance on public safety.