Definitions and purpose for the youth curfew law

For the purpose of this chapter, unless it is plainly evident from the context that a different meaning is intended, certain terms and words are defined as follows: "Emergency" means an unforeseen combination of circumstances or the resulting state that calls for immediate action. The term includes, but is not limited to, a fire, natural disaster, an automobile accident, or any situation requiring immediate action to prevent serious bodily injury, as defined in section 707-700, Hawaii Revised Statutes, or loss of life. "Minor" means any person who is under the age of eighteen years, but not persons: 1. On active duty with the armed forced of the United States; 2. Who are married; or 3. Who are otherwise emancipated under the laws of Hawaii or another state. "Public place" means any building, park, playground, beach, place of amusement or entertainment, eating place, store or other establishment which is open to the public, whether such establishment is closed or open for business. (Ord. No. 3580, § 1, 2008; Prior code § 22-13.1) A. The purpose of this chapter is to promote public health, safety, and general welfare during late night and school hours. It is also intended to reduce juvenile crime and victimization, especially violent crime committed by, and perpetuated against, juveniles. The purpose of this chapter is not to prohibit, prevent, or interfere with a minor's exercise of first amendment and other rights under the United States Constitution. This chapter preserves those constitutionally protected rights. B. This chapter is adopted pursuant to section 577-21, Hawaii Revised Statues, as amended. (Ord. No. 3580, § 2, 2008)