KENTWOOD, Mich. (WOOD) — Woodland Mall is implementing a new policy requiring parental supervision for teens on Saturday nights.
The policy goes into effect this week and requires people under the age of 18 to be with a parent or guardian who is at least 21 after 6 p.m.
The mall in Kentwood says the new rule is in response to concerns about unsupervised teens gathering in large groups.
“Woodland Mall is committed to maintaining a welcoming environment for all of our guests. This policy ensures our visitors can enjoy their shopping experience and fosters a secure work environment for mall employees,” Tony DeLuccia, the mall’s general manager, told News 8 in a statement.
Some people visiting the mall Wednesday welcomed the new policy, saying they would hopeful it would reduce the number of fights or other problems.
“To me, I think it would actually be perfect,” customer Harrison Allington said. “I’m not against having fun, but if you’re going to be up here fighting, causing all sort of chaos (then you should have to leave).”
With new venues and entertainment options that stay open later, some say more parental supervision is a good idea.
“It would be a better thing if the kids of the teenager had their parents with them. Therefore, they have adult supervision over them,” Anthony Kinard of Wyoming said.
Other customers wondered how the policy will be enforced and whether it can be done in a way that is fair. There were also concerns that the change punishes teens who were at the mall with their friends and not causing problems.
Still, most people News 8 spoke with supported the idea.
“Once it goes into effect, I think it would have a good impact on this city,” Kinard said.
The mall said store managers will be responsible for ensuring teens are following the policy.