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Cape May City Council Unanimously Approves New Curfew and Bag Restrictions for Unaccompanied Minors

The Cape May City Council unanimously approved a new ordinance that bars anyone under 18 from being on the city's beaches after 8 p.m. unless accompanied by an adult. The ordinance also imposes a 10:30 p.m. curfew for minors in other public areas of the city, unless they are accompanied by a parent or guardian, working, or commuting to work. Cape May Police Chief Dekon Fashaw stated that the measures were implemented to address disruptive and unruly behavior from large groups of minors, including fighting and underage drinking. The administration announced that the new rules also prohibit backpacks and large bags on the beaches and promenade between 8 p.00 p.m. and 6 a.m., except for medical equipment. These restrictions are intended to prevent minors from bringing alcohol and drugs into public spaces. Mayor Zachary Mullock noted that the city wanted to avoid becoming the "afterparty" for other shore towns that have already implemented similar curfews. The new rules were fast-tracked to ensure public safety and order as the city prepares for the upcoming Labor Day weekend.

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