Overview

• The proposed ordinance would allow police to impose temporary curfews to prevent large, unsupervised teen gatherings linked to violent incidents downtown.
• Discussions resumed today, but the Public Safety Committee postponed a vote again, citing quorum issues and the need for further refinements.
• Ald. Brian Hopkins, who proposed the ordinance, aims to secure its passage before late May, emphasizing its necessity after recent violent events downtown.
• Civil liberties groups, including the ACLU of Illinois, oppose the measure, arguing it is overly broad, unconstitutional, and ineffective as a policing strategy.
• Chicago already enforces a 10 p.m. curfew for unaccompanied teens, and opponents contend police have sufficient authority to disperse unlawful gatherings without new powers.