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Cape May enacts beach curfew for minors over underage drinking concerns
Fox News • • nation
Key Points:
- Cape May City Council unanimously approved new restrictions barring unaccompanied minors under 18 from beaches after 8 p.m. and from public places between 10:30 p.m. and 6 a.m. to address underage drinking, fights, and disruptive behavior.
- The Cape May Police Department also banned backpacks and certain bags on beaches and promenades after 8 p.m., except for necessary medical equipment, aiming to prevent large-scale youth gatherings that have troubled neighboring Jersey Shore towns.
- These measures follow similar curfews enacted by other Jersey Shore communities like Ocean City, Wildwood, and Long Branch, where unauthorized teen gatherings have previously caused violence and disorder.
- Officials emphasize the restrictions are meant to enhance public safety without discouraging young visitors, with early reports indicating the new rules have helped maintain a peaceful environment for families.
- Some visitors expressed support for the curfew, viewing it as a proactive step to reduce trouble caused by a minority of youths and preserve the town's family-friendly atmosphere.
