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 the District's approach to juvenile behavior and safety. The act proposes changing curfew hours to 11 PM during July and August 2025 and extending the curfew to include 17-year-olds. This legislation aims to address troubling trends of youth gatherings that have led to violence and disorder in various neighborhoods. Councilmember Brooke Pinto emphasized the dual approach of providing safe recreation while empowering police to manage situations effectively. The act allows the Chief of Police to establish curfew zones, which could start at 7 PM for up to 30 days based on public safety needs.
Enhanced police presence has already been implemented to prevent negative behavior in hotspots across the city. The District also continues to support youth through various summer programs like employment initiatives and recreational activities. This emergency legislation will be submitted for consideration during the Council's July 1 meeting.