In Gloucester Township, New Jersey, a new ordinance holds parents legally accountable for their children’s actions.
Passed on July 28, 2025, police shared the news about the ordinance over social media on Thursday. The “Minors and Parent Responsibility” law stipulates that parents or guardians may face fines up to $2,000 or jail time up to 90 days if their child commits any of 28 specified offenses.
Newsweek has contacted the mayor of Gloucester Township for comment via email.
Why It Matters
Gloucester Township is among the first larger municipalities to implement such a measure. The ordinance encompasses a wide range of offenses, including felonies, disorderly conduct, loitering, curfew violations, chronic truancy, vandalism, drug-related activities, and associating with individuals involved in criminal behavior. If a minor is repeatedly found guilty in juvenile court, their parent or guardian may be held responsible.
What To Know
The law was enacted following a series of incidents involving juvenile disturbances. Notably, during the 2024 Gloucester Township Day and Drone Show, a large group of minors caused significant disruptions, leading to 11 arrests and injuries to three police officers. The ordinance aims to address such issues by promoting parental oversight and accountability…