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 juvenile curfew enforcement in Washington, DC. This legislation seeks to change curfew hours to 11 PM during July and August and extend curfews to 17-year-olds. Councilmember Brooke Pinto highlighted the importance of providing safe spaces for youth while allowing the Chief of Police to establish extended curfew zones in response to public safety concerns. The initiative responds to recent incidents of large groups of juveniles engaging in unlawful behavior in commercial areas like the Wharf and U Street. Current enforcement methods have proven limited, prompting this legislative action.
The Council will review the proposed amendments during its July 1 Legislative Meeting. Increased police presence aims to disrupt negative behavior and ensure community safety. The District continues to support youth through summer programming, including employment opportunities and recreational activities.