In an extreme step aimed at preserving the spiritual environment of one of the world’s leading Torah cities, officials in Bnei Brak have introduced new restrictions, which basically create a nighttime curfew targeting spots where bochurim may be gathering.

The Bnei Brak city council expanded an existing bylaw requiring restaurants and food stands to close by 10 p.m., now extending the rule to include vending machines that sell drinks and snacks. This may seem extreme to most, but local leaders and educators think otherwise. Local leaders say the move comes after growing concern from educators and rabbanim, who reported that bochurim had begun congregating late at night around vending machines, which had become a workaround after restrictions on restaurants and take-out establishments were already put in place. Bochurim used these spots to make trouble, smoke, and engage in other activities that were deemed harmful to their spirituality.

The new regulation was suggested by city council member Rabbi Zev Lipschitz, who warned of what he described as both physical and “spiritual harm” being caused by these late night environments.

Supporters of the new bylaw agree it is important to ensure that the streets of Bnei Brak remain aligned with Torah values, and to allow parents to feel secure sending their children to night seder and maariv without worrying about outside distractions.

Those against, however, view the restriction as another infringement on personal freedom within the city and say there is a limit to what can be done to preserve a certain environment when it affects the lives of so many.

With the law passing, enforcement is expected to be strict, with fines being planned for any businesses that violate new rules.