Both sides of Texarkana have a curfew law that applies to juveniles under the age of 18.
And the laws are about the same. Minors are not allowed in public places unaccompanied by a parent or guardian during the hours of 11 p.m. until 6 a.m. Sunday through Thursday. They can stay put until midnight on Friday and Saturday. Additionally, during school days they cannot be out in public between 9 a.m. until 2:30 p.m.
There are exceptions, of course, for employment, church and school trips, emergencies and other needs.
The Texas side will be reviewing it's curfew law tonight during public hearing at the regular City Council meeting at City Hall. It will be an opportunity for local residents to share their views about the curfew, ask any questions they may have and even comment on how the law is working.
We support the curfew law on both sides of the line. We think it's necessary in a time when youth supervision isn't what it once was. But even though the curfew has been in place on the Texas side since 1993, we don't hear a lot about it. Maybe that means it's working. We hope so. The alternative is that it's a law that looks good on the books but is seldom enforced. We certainly hope that's not the case.
We imagine the public has some valuable insight into the curfew law and here's a chance to be heard. We hope any Texas-side resident with questions, concerns or comments will choose to attend the hearing.