H.R.214 - District of Columbia Legislative Home Rule Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R. 214, the District of Columbia Legislative Home Rule Act, aims to eliminate the Congressional review period for acts passed by the D.C. Council. This bill amends the District of Columbia Home Rule Act to remove sections granting Congress the power to review and potentially disapprove of D.C. laws. The proposed changes would grant D.C. greater autonomy in its legislative affairs.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill would be to expedite the implementation of laws passed by the D.C. Council. By removing the Congressional review period, D.C. laws would take effect more quickly, enhancing the city's self-governance. This shift could lead to more responsive and locally driven policies within the District.
Potential Benefits
- Streamlined legislative process in D.C.
- Increased local autonomy and self-governance for D.C.
- More efficient implementation of D.C. laws.
- Reduced federal oversight of D.C.'s legislative actions.
- Greater responsiveness of D.C. government to local needs.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for D.C. laws to be enacted without sufficient Congressional oversight.
- Risk of D.C. enacting laws that conflict with national interests.
- Concerns about the balance of power between the federal government and D.C.
- Possible increase in legal challenges to D.C. laws due to lack of Congressional review.
- Could set a precedent for other jurisdictions seeking greater autonomy.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's constitutional alignment is complex. Article I, Section 8, Clause 17 grants Congress the power to exercise exclusive legislation over the District of Columbia. This bill seeks to reduce that power, which could be viewed as a challenge to the enumerated powers of Congress. However, Congress can modify its own rules and procedures, so the alignment hinges on the interpretation of Congressional authority over D.C.
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).