DALLAS (1080 KRLD) - Dallas city leaders have reinstated a controversial teenage curfew. The ordinance passed by a 10-5 vote.
Dallas' curfew expired in January. The 1991 ordinance prohibited children under the age of 16 from going outside without an adult after 11 p.m. Sunday through Thursday. On the weekends, teens were not allowed out past midnight.
Supporters claim it protects children and is needed. Critics argue it criminalizes children and targets minorities.
Councilman Phillip Kingston says curfew laws simply don't work.
"All the data points in the absolute same direction. Curfews don't keep kids safe. They don't prevent crime or youth victimization," he says.
But others like councilman Adam McGough says curfew laws are tools police told his committee were needed.
"This is absolutely is about protecting kids. In fact with the verbal warnings, and using community court, we are effectively decriminalizing violators," he says.
The council changed violations from a $500 fine to $50. Those caught out after dark could be given written warnings and offered access to community services.
