Mayor Bowser Announces Emergency Legislation to Amend Districts Juvenile Curfew Laws

Mayor Muriel Bowser announced the Juvenile Curfew Emergency Amendment Act of 2025, extending curfew hours to 11 PM and applying it to 17-year-olds. The legislation allows the Metropolitan Police Department to set curfew zones starting at 7 PM for 15 consecutive days, extendable based on public safety concerns. Councilmember Brooke Pinto highlighted the need for safe recreational spaces while also empowering law enforcement to mitigate potential violence among youth. The act responds to recent incidents of large gatherings of juveniles engaging in harmful behavior across the city. In May, Bowser indicated a shift in public safety strategy due to rising disturbances, particularly in areas like the Wharf and Navy Yard.

The MPD has increased its neighborhood presence to prevent negative behavior and enforce public peace laws. This legislation aims to strike a balance between safety and youth engagement through summer programming. The District continues to support positive youth initiatives, including the Mayor Marion S. Barry Summer Youth Employment Program.