Bill > PR26-0300

This resolution declares an emergency to amend the Juvenile Curfew Act of 1995, responding to increased youth-related safety concerns in the District of Columbia throughout 2023 and 2024. The resolution highlights several instances of large youth groups causing disturbances in areas like the Wharf, Navy Yard, and U Street, including fights, robberies, assaults, and shootings. The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) found that temporary juvenile curfew zones during summer months successfully prevented youth gatherings and resulted in zero curfew violations during extended hours from 8pm-11pm. The emergency legislation seeks to provide greater flexibility to the Mayor and Chief of Police in establishing extended juvenile curfew hours and zones, and potentially extending curfew applicability to 17-year-olds. By characterizing the situation as an emergency, the Council aims to adopt the Juvenile Curfew Second Emergency Amendment Act of 2025 after a single reading, with the resolution taking effect immediately to address public safety concerns and protect both young people and the broader community.

https://lims.dccouncil.gov/Legislation/PR26-0300