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B 26-0637

Juvenile Curfew Sunset Temporary Amendment Act of 2026

26th Council Period (2025-2026) Introduced by Brooke Pinto

DC bill allowing juvenile curfew law to expire without renewal, eliminating nighttime movement restrictions on minors currently in effect.

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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · B 26-0637

Legislative bill overview

This bill would allow the District of Columbia's juvenile curfew law to expire ("sunset") rather than automatically renew. The current curfew restricts minors' nighttime movements and has been in place under temporary authority that periodically requires reauthorization by the Council.

Why is this important

Juvenile curfew laws are actively debated nationwide, with supporters citing public safety benefits and critics arguing they disproportionately affect youth of color and restrict constitutional freedoms. This bill's outcome will determine whether DC minors remain subject to these restrictions or whether the law lapses entirely.

Potential points of contention

  • Racial disparities: Enforcement data often shows curfew violations cited disproportionately among Black and Latino youth, raising civil rights concerns
  • Effectiveness debate: Research presents conflicting evidence on whether curfews actually reduce juvenile crime or simply shift police enforcement patterns
  • Public safety trade-offs: Supporters argue curfews protect youth from nighttime violence and risky situations; opponents counter they criminalize normal adolescent behavior without proven benefits

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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