The Juvenile Curfew Emergency Amendment Act of 2025, proposed by Mayor Muriel Bowser, aims to enhance the enforcement and accountability measures related to juvenile behavior in the District of Columbia. The legislation seeks to amend the existing Juvenile Curfew Act of 1995 by changing curfew hours to 11 p.m. during the summer months of June, July, and August 2025, and extending the curfew's applicability to include 17-year-olds. Additionally, it authorizes the Chief of Police to establish extended juvenile curfew zones, which would have curfews starting at 7 p.m. for up to 30 days, based on public safety considerations. The Mayor would also have the authority to implement emergency curfews as needed.
The resolution highlights a concerning rise in unruly behavior among juveniles in the District, with incidents of violence and crime reported in various neighborhoods. The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) has faced challenges in addressing these issues with limited tools, prompting the need for more flexible curfew regulations to ensure the safety of both juveniles and the public. The Council is urged to act promptly on this emergency legislation to effectively respond to the current safety concerns and protect the community.