Mayor Bowser Announces Emergency Legislation to Amend Districts Juvenile Curfew Laws

Mayor Muriel Bowser introduced the Juvenile Curfew Emergency Amendment Act of 2025, which modifies juvenile curfew hours to 11 PM during July and August and includes 17-year-olds. This legislation enables the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) to establish earlier curfews in areas experiencing unrest. Councilmember Brooke Pinto highlighted the importance of providing safe recreational spaces for youth while giving police the necessary tools to prevent violence. The decision to amend the curfew stems from rising incidents of large groups of juveniles engaging in unlawful conduct across neighborhoods like the Wharf and Dupont Circle. The legislation also allows the Mayor to authorize emergency curfews in response to specific safety concerns.

MPD has heightened its enforcement efforts to address disturbances and support positive youth engagement through initiatives like the Mayor Marion S. Barry Summer Youth Employment Program. This approach aims to balance community safety with the need for youth engagement. The legislation will be considered at the Council’s July 1 meeting, reflecting a proactive stance on public safety.