In a controversial move, the town of Naschel in the Argentine province of San Luis has banned minors under the age of 16 from leaving their homes alone between midnight and 6am. The decision was approved on July 1 and published in the official provincial gazette on July 15. The authorities emphasized that ensuring the welfare and safety of minors is the top priority of the town government, and that the risk of accidents, violence, and other dangers is higher when minors are allowed to roam the streets at night without adult supervision. The regulation stipulates that any minor under the age of 16 found to be outside their home during this time without a guardian will be taken to the nearest police station, where their parents or guardians will be notified to collect them. The authorities will also inspect entertainment venues, such as dance halls and amusement parks, to ensure that minors are not allowed to enter unaccompanied. Parents or guardians of minors will be held responsible for their children's behavior, and repeat offenders may face fines or other penalties. The local government has also launched a public awareness campaign to educate people about the risks associated with minors leaving their homes alone at night and the importance of adhering to the regulations. The town government has signed off on the regulation, citing the need to protect minors from potential harm. According to the town's mayor, Valeria Verónica Kuhn, the regulation aims to ensure the safety of minors, rather than punishing them, and seeks to prevent accidents and other harm that may occur when minors are left unchecked. The move has been criticized by some quarters, with some arguing that it infringes on minors' rights and freedoms. However, the authorities maintain that the regulation is necessary to protect minors and promote their safety.