Mayor Bowser Announces Emergency Legislation to Amend Districts Juvenile Curfew Laws

Mayor Muriel Bowser announced the Juvenile Curfew Emergency Amendment Act of 2025, designed to bolster enforcement tools for juvenile safety and curfew flexibility. The proposed legislation changes curfew hours to 11 p. m. in July and August and extends curfew applicability to 17-year-olds. Mayor Bowser highlighted the urgency of addressing troubling trends in youth gatherings that lead to violence.

Councilmember Brooke Pinto emphasized the need for engaging recreational spaces while empowering police to implement earlier curfews where necessary. The Chief of Police will have the authority to establish extended curfew zones if public safety is at risk, with curfews beginning at 7 p. m. for 15 consecutive days. Recent incidents in locations like the Wharf and Dupont Circle prompted this emergency legislation.

The District aims to balance enforcement with positive youth engagement, supported by programs like the Mayor Marion S. Barry Summer Youth Employment Program. The Council will review the legislation during its meeting on July 1.