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 enforcement tools for juvenile curfews in response to rising youth violence in Washington, D. C. The proposed legislation will modify curfew hours to 11 PM in July and August and extend the curfew to include 17-year-olds. It will also authorize the Chief of Police to establish extended curfew zones, allowing for earlier curfews if public safety is compromised. Councilmember Brooke Pinto highlighted the importance of providing safe recreational spaces for youth while preventing violence.

Recent incidents of large groups of juveniles engaging in unlawful behavior in areas like the Wharf and Navy Yard led to the urgent need for this legislation. The D. C. government is committed to supporting youth through programs like the Mayor Marion S. Barry Summer Youth Employment Program.

The Metropolitan Police Department has increased its presence to mitigate negative behavior and enforce laws on public disturbances. The legislation reflects an effort to balance youth engagement with community safety concerns.