Mayor Bowser Announces Emergency Legislation to Amend Districts Juvenile Curfew Laws

Mayor Muriel Bowser announced the Juvenile Curfew Emergency Amendment Act of 2025 to enhance juvenile curfew enforcement in Washington, D. C. The legislation seeks to change curfew hours to 11 pm during July and August and extends curfew applicability to 17-year-olds. It authorizes the Chief of Police to create extended curfew zones that can begin as early as 7 pm for up to 30 days based on safety needs. Councilmember Brooke Pinto highlighted the importance of providing safe recreational options for youth while ensuring community safety.

Recent incidents of violence involving groups of juveniles in areas like the Wharf and Dupont Circle spurred the need for this emergency measure. The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) has previously struggled with limited tools to manage juvenile behavior effectively. The legislation will be presented for consideration at the Council's July 1 Legislative Meeting. This initiative reflects a broader strategy to adjust the District's public safety posture amid ongoing concerns about youth-related disturbances.