Mayor pushes back juvenile curfew law

Washington Mayor Calls for Swift Re‑Enactment of Teen Curfew Law

The city’s mayor has urged the council to quickly re‑enact a law that keeps teenagers out of town after dark.
She said the current pause on this rule is making crime higher and people feel less safe in Washington.

The proposed bill would undo a sunset clause that let the curfew end earlier this year and give city leaders up to 90 days of extra powers. Police could set special curfew zones and use more force if needed.

The move follows a rise in large groups of teens hanging out together, sometimes staging flash mobs that lead to fights, thefts or vandalism near tourist spots and subway stops. Officials worry the city will feel unsafe as it prepares for a big national celebration in July that could bring millions of visitors.

A federal prosecutor has also stepped up the pressure. She warned parents that they could be arrested if they let their kids commit violent acts or keep causing trouble.
She said the city would not tolerate “violent, dangerous, illegal” incidents and that parents must take responsibility for their children’s behavior.