Mayor Bowser Announces Emergency Legislation to Amend Districts Juvenile Curfew Laws

Mayor Muriel Bowser introduced the Juvenile Curfew Emergency Amendment Act of 2025 to extend curfew hours for juveniles and enhance public safety measures. The Act allows the Metropolitan Police Department to implement flexible curfew zones and gives the Chief of Police authority to call for emergency curfews in response to youth disturbances. Curfew hours will change to 11 PM during July and August, and the new rules will apply to 17-year-olds. This legislation addresses rising incidents of violence among youth in areas like the Wharf and Dupont Circle. Bowser stressed the importance of acting to prevent violence and disorder before it starts.

Councilmember Brooke Pinto highlighted the need for safe recreational spaces for youth alongside the new curfew measures. The legislation will be submitted for consideration during the Council's July 1 meeting. Increased police presence in neighborhoods aims to disrupt negative behaviors while supporting positive youth engagement through summer programming.