Recognizing the service of all District of Columbia veterans, condemning the denial of voting representation in Congress and full local self-government for veterans and their families who are District of Columbia residents, and calling for statehood for the District of Columbia through the enactment of the Washington, D.C. Admission Act (H.R. 51 and S. 51), particularly in light of the service of District of Columbia veterans in every American war.
Summary
H. Res. 871 expresses the House of Representatives' recognition of the service of District of Columbia veterans. It condemns the denial of voting representation in Congress and full local self-government for DC residents, particularly veterans and their families. The resolution calls for DC statehood through the enactment of the Washington, D.C. Admission Act (H.R. 51 and S. 51).
Expected Effects
If enacted, this resolution would formally express the House's support for DC statehood. While the resolution itself doesn't change any laws, it signals a political stance. The ultimate effect depends on whether the Washington, D.C. Admission Act is passed and signed into law.
Potential Benefits
- Increased Representation: DC residents, including veterans, would gain full voting representation in Congress.
- Local Self-Government: DC would have greater control over its local affairs without federal intervention.
- Symbolic Recognition: Acknowledges the sacrifices of DC veterans who served without full representation.
- Enhanced Democratic Participation: DC residents would have the same rights as citizens of other states.
- Potential Economic Boost: Statehood could lead to greater economic autonomy and development for DC.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential Disruption: Transitioning to statehood could create administrative and logistical challenges.
- Federal District Size: The size of the remaining federal district would need to be determined.
- Political Opposition: Statehood faces significant political opposition, making enactment uncertain.
- Impact on Federal Government: The change could affect the balance of power in Congress.
- Uncertainty about Long-Term Effects: The full consequences of DC statehood are difficult to predict.
Constitutional Alignment
The resolution's call for DC statehood raises constitutional questions, particularly regarding Article I, Section 2, which discusses the composition of the House of Representatives based on the people of the several states. The Constitution does not explicitly address the status of the District of Columbia, leading to ongoing debates about whether Congress has the authority to grant it statehood without a constitutional amendment. The resolution also touches on principles of representation and taxation, echoing the historical slogan of "no taxation without representation."
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).