Mayor Bowser Announces Emergency Legislation to Amend Districts Juvenile Curfew Laws

Mayor Muriel Bowser announced the Juvenile Curfew Emergency Amendment Act of 2025 to combat rising violence involving youth in Washington, DC. The legislation seeks to change juvenile curfew hours to 11 PM for July and August and extends the curfew to include 17-year-olds. It also authorizes the Chief of Police to designate specific areas with earlier curfews based on safety concerns, allowing for a more responsive approach to community disturbances. Councilmember Brooke Pinto highlighted the need for both safe recreational spaces and preventive measures against violence. The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) has previously implemented various strategies to manage juvenile behavior, but current tools are limited.

This emergency legislation responds to recent incidents involving large groups of juveniles in areas such as the Wharf and Dupont Circle. The proposed changes aim to enhance safety for both youths and the broader community. The legislation will be discussed at the Council's July 1 Legislative Meeting.