Mayor Bowser Announces Emergency Legislation to Amend Districts Juvenile Curfew Laws
Mayor Muriel Bowser announced the Juvenile Curfew Emergency Amendment Act of 2025 to strengthen public safety measures related to juvenile behavior. The act modifies curfew hours to 11 PM for July and August and expands the curfew to include 17-year-olds. It also empowers the Chief of Police to create extended curfew zones starting at 7 PM for up to 30 days if necessary. This legislation follows a surge in incidents involving groups of juveniles engaging in unlawful conduct in areas like the Wharf and Navy Yard. Councilmember Brooke Pinto highlighted the need for safe recreational options for youth while also enhancing law enforcement's capacity to prevent violence.
The Metropolitan Police Department has been actively increasing its presence to deter negative behavior. Recent incidents prompted the mayor to propose this emergency legislation as part of a broader strategy to address community safety. The new measures aim to balance enforcement with opportunities for positive youth engagement.