Joel Navarro – Government & Policy Reporter
HOUSTON – Tensions flared at Wednesday’s City Council meeting as members debated a proposed 10:00 p.m. youth curfew, following a reported spike in juvenile-related incidents over the summer.
The ordinance, introduced by Council Member Malik Johnson (District K), would apply to minors under 17 and allow police to issue warnings or citations to unaccompanied youths out past curfew on weekdays.
“We’ve had over 130 juvenile arrests since June,” Johnson said. “This is about safety — not punishment.”
Opponents argue the measure could disproportionately affect Black and Latino neighborhoods and put unnecessary pressure on HPD officers already stretched thin.
“We need more youth programming, not more tickets,” said Council Member Rosa Medina. “We cannot criminalize childhood.”
During public comment, several parents and teachers expressed concern about lack of enforcement consistency and the need for safe late-night spaces for teens.
The proposal narrowly passed its first reading, 8–7. A final vote is expected next week.