FY2021 District of Columbia Budget and
April
April
1619, 2021 , 2021
Appropriations
Joseph V. Jaroscak
The District of Columbia (DC) government’s local operating budget and much of its local
The District of Columbia (DC) government’s local operating budget and much of its local
Analyst in Economic
Analyst in Economic
legislation is subject to congressional approval, pursuant to the plenary legislative authority of
legislation is subject to congressional approval, pursuant to the plenary legislative authority of
Development Policy
Development Policy
Congress over the federal capital granted by the U.S. Constitution. In addition to congressional
Congress over the federal capital granted by the U.S. Constitution. In addition to congressional
authority over the DC budget process, typically, annual federal appropriations legislation has
authority over the DC budget process, typically, annual federal appropriations legislation has
included a series of federal payments for a variety of services and initiatives in DC. Such included a series of federal payments for a variety of services and initiatives in DC. Such
legislation also often includes general provisions, specific to DC, that establish fiscal, budgetary,
legislation also often includes general provisions, specific to DC, that establish fiscal, budgetary,
and policy controls on federal, and in some cases, local DC funds. and policy controls on federal, and in some cases, local DC funds.
Each year, the DC government produces a budget through a coordinated process between the Executive Office of the Mayor
Each year, the DC government produces a budget through a coordinated process between the Executive Office of the Mayor
and the DC Council. The budget consists of a federal portion and a local portion, which are adopted by the DC Council in and the DC Council. The budget consists of a federal portion and a local portion, which are adopted by the DC Council in
two separate bills. Once approved, the federal portion is transmitted by the mayor to the President, who forwards ittwo separate bills. Once approved, the federal portion is transmitted by the mayor to the President, who forwards it
to to
Congress for review, possible modification, and approval through the annual appropriations process. The local portion is Congress for review, possible modification, and approval through the annual appropriations process. The local portion is
submitted by the chair of the DC Council to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, for review by Congress. In 2013, submitted by the chair of the DC Council to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, for review by Congress. In 2013,
DC enacted the Local Budget Autonomy Act of 2012, which amended DC’s home rule charter by decreasing the length of DC enacted the Local Budget Autonomy Act of 2012, which amended DC’s home rule charter by decreasing the length of
the congressional review period (also known as the layover period) for its local budget to 30 days, similar to most other DC the congressional review period (also known as the layover period) for its local budget to 30 days, similar to most other DC
laws, during which Congress may act to disapprove the legislation. After a series of legal and legislative challenges, the act laws, during which Congress may act to disapprove the legislation. After a series of legal and legislative challenges, the act
was upheld by a DC Superior Court ruling. The DC government has observed the act in its budget process since 2016. was upheld by a DC Superior Court ruling. The DC government has observed the act in its budget process since 2016.
On February 10, 2020,
On February 10, 2020,
the Trump Administration submitted its detailed budget request for FY2021, which included $753 the Trump Administration submitted its detailed budget request for FY2021, which included $753
million in federal payments to the District of Columbia. The DC government passed a $16.9 billion dollar FY2021million in federal payments to the District of Columbia. The DC government passed a $16.9 billion dollar FY2021
budget on budget on
August 31, 2020. The U.S. House of Representatives and the Senate passed the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 (P.L. August 31, 2020. The U.S. House of Representatives and the Senate passed the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 (P.L.
116-260).116-260).
Division E, Title IV of the act included $734.5 millionDivision E, Title IV of the act included $734.5 million
in federal payments for DC. The act also included several in federal payments for DC. The act also included several
general provisions relating to fiscal and budgetary controls, administrative directives, and restrictions or prohibitions related general provisions relating to fiscal and budgetary controls, administrative directives, and restrictions or prohibitions related
to social policy. Some such provisions pertain to issues including abortion services, DC voting representation, needle to social policy. Some such provisions pertain to issues including abortion services, DC voting representation, needle
exchange initiatives, and Schedule I controlled substances. exchange initiatives, and Schedule I controlled substances.
Congressional Research Service
Congressional Research Service
link to page 4 link to page 4 link to page 5 link to page 5 link to page 5 link to page 6 link to page 6 link to page 8 link to page 9 link to page 9 link to page 10 link to page 10 link to page 11 link to page 7 link to page 12
link to page 4 link to page 4 link to page 5 link to page 5 link to page 5 link to page 6 link to page 6 link to page 8 link to page 9 link to page 9 link to page 10 link to page 10 link to page 11 link to page 7 link to page 12
FY2021 District of Columbia Appropriations
Contents
Introduction ..................................................................................................................................... 1
District of Columbia Budget Process .............................................................................................. 1
Local Budget Autonomy ........................................................................................................... 2
FY2021 Appropriations of Federal Payments for the District of Columbia .................................... 2
The President’s FY2021 Budget Request ................................................................................. 2
2
District of Columbia FY2021 Budget ....................................................................................... 3
Congressional Action ................................................................................................................ 3
General Provisions: Key Policy Issues ............................................................................................ 5
Abortion Services ...................................................................................................................... 6
DC Voting Representation in Congress ..................................................................................... 6
Needle Exchange ...... 6 Needle Exchange................................................................................................................. 7
Schedule I Substances ............................................................................................................... 7
Concluding Observations .......................................................................................................... 8
Tables
Table 1. District of Columbia Appropriations, FY2020-FY2021: Federal Payments ..................... 4
Contacts
Author Information .......................................................................................................................... 9
Congressional Research Service
Congressional Research Service
link to page 7 link to page 8
link to page 7 link to page 8
FY2021 District of Columbia Appropriations
Introduction
The U.S. Constitution provides Congress with plenary legislative authority over the District of The U.S. Constitution provides Congress with plenary legislative authority over the District of
Columbia (DC) as the federal capital. With the passage of the District of Columbia Self-Columbia (DC) as the federal capital. With the passage of the District of Columbia Self-
Government and Governmental Reorganization Act of 1973 (Home Rule Act; P.L. 93-198), Government and Governmental Reorganization Act of 1973 (Home Rule Act; P.L. 93-198),
Congress granted DC limited home rule authority and empowered DC residents to elect a mayor Congress granted DC limited home rule authority and empowered DC residents to elect a mayor
and city council. However, Congress retained its authority to review and approve and city council. However, Congress retained its authority to review and approve
all al DC laws, DC laws,
including DC’s annual budget. In addition to its budget authority, including DC’s annual budget. In addition to its budget authority,
generallygeneral y, Congress , Congress
annuallyannual y appropriates a series of federal payments to DC for a variety of purposes, funded through the appropriates a series of federal payments to DC for a variety of purposes, funded through the
Financial Services and General Government (FSGG) appropriations Financial Services and General Government (FSGG) appropriations
bill.1 bil .1
The provisions in annual federal appropriations acts related to the DC budget
The provisions in annual federal appropriations acts related to the DC budget
typicallytypical y include the include the
following three components: following three components:
1. Federal payments for specific purposes;2
1. Federal payments for specific purposes;2
2. Approval, disapproval, or modifications to DC’s operating budget;3 and
2. Approval, disapproval, or modifications to DC’s operating budget;3 and
3. General provisions pertaining to fiscal, budgetary, and policy directives, controls,
3. General provisions pertaining to fiscal, budgetary, and policy directives, controls,
and restrictions.4
and restrictions.4
This report provides an overview of the DC budget process, details the types and amounts of
This report provides an overview of the DC budget process, details the types and amounts of
federal payments appropriated in the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 (P.L. 116-260), and federal payments appropriated in the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2021 (P.L. 116-260), and
discusses some general provisions related to local DC policy in the FY2021 appropriations act. discusses some general provisions related to local DC policy in the FY2021 appropriations act.
District of Columbia Budget Process
The DC Home Rule Act codifies the process by which the Executive Office of the Mayor and DC The DC Home Rule Act codifies the process by which the Executive Office of the Mayor and DC
Council develop DC’s operating budget. Under this process, the DC Mayor establishes a Council develop DC’s operating budget. Under this process, the DC Mayor establishes a
proposed budget, consistent with guidance on funding levels from the DC Chief Financial proposed budget, consistent with guidance on funding levels from the DC Chief Financial
Officer. The mayor’s budget also considers agency requests and other analysis by the Executive Officer. The mayor’s budget also considers agency requests and other analysis by the Executive
Office of the Mayor. Office of the Mayor.
With regards to the budget, the DC council serves in an oversight role. As required by the Home
With regards to the budget, the DC council serves in an oversight role. As required by the Home
Rule Act, the DC Council must approve a budget within 70 days after receiving a budget proposal Rule Act, the DC Council must approve a budget within 70 days after receiving a budget proposal
from the DC mayor. The budget consists of a federal portion and a local portion, which are from the DC mayor. The budget consists of a federal portion and a local portion, which are
adopted by the DC Council in two separate adopted by the DC Council in two separate
billsbil s. Once approved, the federal portion is . Once approved, the federal portion is
transmitted by the mayor to the President, who forwards it to Congress for review, possible transmitted by the mayor to the President, who forwards it to Congress for review, possible
modification, and approval through the annual appropriations process. The local portion is modification, and approval through the annual appropriations process. The local portion is
submitted by the chairman of the DC Council to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, for submitted by the chairman of the DC Council to the Speaker of the House of Representatives, for
a 30-day period of review by Congress.5 If Congress does not act to disapprove the legislation a 30-day period of review by Congress.5 If Congress does not act to disapprove the legislation
within this 30-day period, it becomes a law.6 within this 30-day period, it becomes a law.6
1 For more information on FSGG1 For more information on FSGG
appropriations, see CRSappropriations, see CRS
Report R46621, Report R46621,
Financial Services and General
GovernmentGovernm ent (FSGG) FY2021 Appropriations: Overview, by Baird, by Baird
Webel. Webel.
2
2
TheT he federal payments for FY2020 and FY2021 are enumerated in federal payments for FY2020 and FY2021 are enumerated in
Table 1 of this report. of this report.
3 D.C. Code §1-204.46 3 D.C. Code §1-204.46
4 For an overview of some such4 For an overview of some such
provisions, see provisions, see
“ General Provisions: Key Policy Issues” in this report. in this report.
5 Government of the District of Columbia, 5 Government of the District of Columbia,
Fiscal Year 2021 Approved Budget and Financial Plan , August 27, 2020, , August 27, 2020,
https://cfo.dc.gov/sites/default/files/dc/sites/ocfo/publication/attachments/DC_OCFO_Budget_Vol_1-Bookmarked-9-1-https://cfo.dc.gov/sites/default/files/dc/sites/ocfo/publication/attachments/DC_OCFO_Budget_Vol_1-Bookmarked-9-1-
2020.pdf. 2020.pdf.
6 District of Columbia6 District of Columbia
Council, Council,
How a Bill Becomes a Law: District of Columbia Legislative Process, ,
Congressional Research Service
Congressional Research Service
1
1
FY2021 District of Columbia Appropriations
Since the passage of P.L. 109-115 for FY2006, the DC appropriations have been included in a
Since the passage of P.L. 109-115 for FY2006, the DC appropriations have been included in a
multi-agency appropriations multi-agency appropriations
billbil ; before FY2006 the DC budget was considered by the House and ; before FY2006 the DC budget was considered by the House and
the Senate as a stand-alone the Senate as a stand-alone
bill. bil . The DC budget is currently included in the Financial Services The DC budget is currently included in the Financial Services
and General Government appropriations and General Government appropriations
bill bil (FSGG). (FSGG).
Local Budget Autonomy
In 2013, DC enacted the Local Budget Autonomy Amendment Act of 2012 (D.C. Law 19-321).7 In 2013, DC enacted the Local Budget Autonomy Amendment Act of 2012 (D.C. Law 19-321).7
The act amended DC’s home rule charter by decreasing the length of the congressional review The act amended DC’s home rule charter by decreasing the length of the congressional review
period (also known as the layover period) for its local budget to 30 days, similar to most other DC period (also known as the layover period) for its local budget to 30 days, similar to most other DC
laws. The DC Board of Elections placed the proposed charter amendment on an April 23, 2013, laws. The DC Board of Elections placed the proposed charter amendment on an April 23, 2013,
ballotbal ot. DC voters approved the local budget autonomy charter amendment with 83% of the vote . DC voters approved the local budget autonomy charter amendment with 83% of the vote
in support of the amendment. The act faced legal and federal legislativein support of the amendment. The act faced legal and federal legislative
challenges chal enges.8 A 2016 DC .8 A 2016 DC
Superior Court ruling upheld the act.9 The DC government has observed the act in its budget Superior Court ruling upheld the act.9 The DC government has observed the act in its budget
process since 2016.10 process since 2016.10
FY2021 Appropriations of Federal Payments for the
District of Columbia
The President’s FY2021 Budget Request
On February 10, 2020, the Trump Administration submitted its detailed budget request for On February 10, 2020, the Trump Administration submitted its detailed budget request for
FY2021. The President’s proposed budget for federal payments to DC was included in an FY2021. The President’s proposed budget for federal payments to DC was included in an
appendix for appendix for
Other Independent Agencies.11 The Administration’s proposed budget included $753 .11 The Administration’s proposed budget included $753
million mil ion in federal payments to the District of Columbia for activities including court services, in federal payments to the District of Columbia for activities including court services,
offender supervision, and public defender services, which would have represented a $39 offender supervision, and public defender services, which would have represented a $39
million mil ion
increase over the FY2020 appropriations of $714 increase over the FY2020 appropriations of $714
millionmil ion. .
The President’s budget
The President’s budget
specificallyspecifical y sought to eliminate appropriations of certain federal payments sought to eliminate appropriations of certain federal payments
for DC, including resident tuition assistance, citing that the program’s authorization expired in for DC, including resident tuition assistance, citing that the program’s authorization expired in
FY2012 and there is “a lack of a clear Federal role for supporting the cost of higher education FY2012 and there is “a lack of a clear Federal role for supporting the cost of higher education
specificallyspecifical y for District residents.”12 The budget request also sought to eliminate a federal for District residents.”12 The budget request also sought to eliminate a federal
payment for the DC Sewer and Water Authority.13payment for the DC Sewer and Water Authority.13
https://dccouncil.us/how-a-bill-becomes-a-law/. https://dccouncil.us/how-a-bill-becomes-a-law/.
7
7
D.C. Law 19-321, Local Budget Autonomy Amendment Act of 2012 , https://code.dccouncil.us/dc/council/laws/19-, https://code.dccouncil.us/dc/council/laws/19-
321.html. 321.html.
8 See8 See
Council of the District of ColumbiaCouncil of the District of Columbia
v. Jeffrey S.v. Jeffrey S.
Dewitt, 144 Daily Wash. L. Rptr. 893 (D.C. Super.Dewitt, 144 Daily Wash. L. Rptr. 893 (D.C. Super.
Ct. March Ct. March
18, 2016). 18, 2016).
9 “Superior Court judge
9 “Superior Court judge
sides sides with D.C. lawmakers on control of locallywith D.C. lawmakers on control of locally
-raised dollars,”-raised dollars,”
Washington Post, March 18, , March 18,
2016, https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/public-safety/superior-court2016, https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/public-safety/superior-court
-judge-sides-with-dc-lawmakers-on-control--judge-sides-with-dc-lawmakers-on-control-
of-locally-raised-dollars/2016/03/18/1059c6e6-ed55-11e5-a6f3-21ccdbc5f74e_story.html. of-locally-raised-dollars/2016/03/18/1059c6e6-ed55-11e5-a6f3-21ccdbc5f74e_story.html.
10 Information provided by the District of Columbia10 Information provided by the District of Columbia
Office of the Chief Financial Officer, 2020.Office of the Chief Financial Officer, 2020.
11 Office of Management and Budget,11 Office of Management and Budget,
A Budget for America’s Future: Appendix, February 2020, , February 2020,
https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/BUDGEThttps://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/BUDGET
-2021-APP/pdf/BUDGET-2021-APP/pdf/BUDGET
-2021-APP.pdf. -2021-APP.pdf.
12 Office of Management and Budget,
12 Office of Management and Budget,
A Budget for America’s Future: Appendix, 2020, pp. 1250-1251, , 2020, pp. 1250-1251,
https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/BUDGEThttps://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/BUDGET
-2021-APP/pdf/BUDGET-2021-APP/pdf/BUDGET
-2021-APP.pdf. -2021-APP.pdf.
13 Office of Management and Budget,13 Office of Management and Budget,
A Budget for America’s Future: Appendix, 2020, p. 1253, , 2020, p. 1253,
Congressional Research Service
Congressional Research Service
2
2
link to page 7
link to page 7
FY2021 District of Columbia Appropriations
District of Columbia FY2021 Budget
On May 18, 2020, the DC mayor submitted a proposed budget to the DC Council. The council On May 18, 2020, the DC mayor submitted a proposed budget to the DC Council. The council
approved a budget of $16.9 approved a budget of $16.9
billion bil ion on July 28, 2020, and transmitted it to the mayor on August on July 28, 2020, and transmitted it to the mayor on August
17, 2020.14 On August 27, 2020, the mayor transmitted the federal portion of the budget to 17, 2020.14 On August 27, 2020, the mayor transmitted the federal portion of the budget to
President Trump.15 The mayor signed and returned a version of the budget to the DC Council President Trump.15 The mayor signed and returned a version of the budget to the DC Council
August 31, 2020.16 On August 31, 2020, the DC Council Chair submitted the local budget to August 31, 2020.16 On August 31, 2020, the DC Council Chair submitted the local budget to
Congress for review, in accordance with the Local Budget Autonomy Amendment Act of 2012 Congress for review, in accordance with the Local Budget Autonomy Amendment Act of 2012
(D.C. Law 19-321).17 The federal payment figures in the DC proposed budget did not include the (D.C. Law 19-321).17 The federal payment figures in the DC proposed budget did not include the
proposed cuts to resident tuition support and the DC Water and Sewer Authority in the Trump proposed cuts to resident tuition support and the DC Water and Sewer Authority in the Trump
Administration’s budget proposal. Administration’s budget proposal.
Congressional Action
The House Committee on Appropriations reported a Financial Services and General Government The House Committee on Appropriations reported a Financial Services and General Government
Appropriations Act, 2021 (H.R. 7668) on July 17, 2020.18 The Appropriations Act, 2021 (H.R. 7668) on July 17, 2020.18 The
bill bil proposed approximately $762 proposed approximately $762
million mil ion in federal payments to DC, representing an increase of approximately $48 in federal payments to DC, representing an increase of approximately $48
million mil ion
compared to the FY2020 level. The text of H.R. 7668, as reported, was subsequently included as compared to the FY2020 level. The text of H.R. 7668, as reported, was subsequently included as
Division D of H.R. 7617 when that Division D of H.R. 7617 when that
bill bil was considered on the House floor. H.R. 7617 passed the was considered on the House floor. H.R. 7617 passed the
House July 31, 2020. House July 31, 2020.
The Senate Appropriations Committee did not hold hearings on the FY2021 budget request for
The Senate Appropriations Committee did not hold hearings on the FY2021 budget request for
federal payments for DC. However, the committee majority released a draft federal payments for DC. However, the committee majority released a draft
bill bil and a draft and a draft
explanatory statement on November 10, 2020.19 explanatory statement on November 10, 2020.19
FSGG appropriations were enacted in Division E of H.R. 133, the Consolidated Appropriations
FSGG appropriations were enacted in Division E of H.R. 133, the Consolidated Appropriations
Act, 2021. The House and Senate passed the H.R. 133 on December 21, 2020. The President Act, 2021. The House and Senate passed the H.R. 133 on December 21, 2020. The President
signed the signed the
bill bil into law on December 27, 2020, as P.L. 116-260. Title IV of Division E of the act into law on December 27, 2020, as P.L. 116-260. Title IV of Division E of the act
included $734.5 included $734.5
millionmil ion in federal payments for a variety of purposes in DC in federal payments for a variety of purposes in DC
.. Table 1 details the details the
https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/BUDGEThttps://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/BUDGET
-2021-APP/pdf/BUDGET-2021-APP/pdf/BUDGET
-2021-APP.pdf. -2021-APP.pdf.
14 District of Columbia
14 District of Columbia
Council, Council,
B23-0761—Fiscal Year 2021 Local Budget Act of 2020: Legislative History, ,
https://lims.dccouncil.us/Legislation/B23-0761; District of Columbia Council, https://lims.dccouncil.us/Legislation/B23-0761; District of Columbia Council,
B23-0760—Fiscal Year 2021 Budget
Support Act of 2020: Legislative History, https://lims.dccouncil.us/Legislation/B23-0760. , https://lims.dccouncil.us/Legislation/B23-0760.
15 Letter from Muriel Bowser,15 Letter from Muriel Bowser,
District of ColumbiaDistrict of Columbia
Mayor, to Mayor, to
TheT he Honorable Donald J. Honorable Donald J.
TrumpT rump, President of the United , President of the United
States, AugustStates, August
27, 2020, https://cfo.dc.gov/sites/default/files/dc/sites/ocfo/publication/attachments/27, 2020, https://cfo.dc.gov/sites/default/files/dc/sites/ocfo/publication/attachments/
DC_OCFO_Budget_Vol_1-Bookmarked-9-1-2020.pdf. DC_OCFO_Budget_Vol_1-Bookmarked-9-1-2020.pdf.
16 District of Columbia
16 District of Columbia
Council, Council,
B23-0761—Fiscal Year 2021 Local Budget Act of 2020: Legislative History, ,
https://lims.dccouncil.us/Legislation/B23-0761; District of Columbia Council, https://lims.dccouncil.us/Legislation/B23-0761; District of Columbia Council,
B23-0760—Fiscal Year 2021 Budget
Support Act of 2020: Legislative History,,
https://lims.dccouncil.us/Legislation/B23-0760. https://lims.dccouncil.us/Legislation/B23-0760.
17 Letter from Phil Mendelson, District of Columbia Council Chair, to
17 Letter from Phil Mendelson, District of Columbia Council Chair, to
TheT he Honorable Nancy Pelosi and Honorable Nancy Pelosi and
TheT he Honorable Honorable
Michael R. Pence, Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives and President of the Senate, AugustMichael R. Pence, Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives and President of the Senate, August
31, 2020, 31, 2020,
https://cfo.dc.gov/sites/default/files/dc/sites/ocfo/publication/attachments/DC_OCFO_Budget_Vol_1-Bookmarked-9-1-https://cfo.dc.gov/sites/default/files/dc/sites/ocfo/publication/attachments/DC_OCFO_Budget_Vol_1-Bookmarked-9-1-
2020.pdf. 2020.pdf.
18 U.S.
18 U.S.
Congress, HouseCongress, House
Committee on Appropriations, Subcommittee on Financial ServicesCommittee on Appropriations, Subcommittee on Financial Services
and General Government, and General Government,
Report to AccompanyAccom pany H.R. 7668, 116th Cong., 2nd sess., H.Rept. 116-456, July 17, 2020. H.R. 7668, 116th Cong., 2nd sess., H.Rept. 116-456, July 17, 2020.
19 See
19 See
U.S.U.S.
Congress, Senate Committee on Appropriations, “Committee Releases FY21 BillsCongress, Senate Committee on Appropriations, “Committee Releases FY21 Bills
in Effort to Advance in Effort to Advance
Process, Produce Bipartisan Results,” https://www.appropriations.senate.gov/news/committee-releases-fy21-bills-in-Process, Produce Bipartisan Results,” https://www.appropriations.senate.gov/news/committee-releases-fy21-bills-in-
efforteffort
-to-advance-process-produce-bipartisan-results/. -to-advance-process-produce-bipartisan-results/.
Congressional Research Service
Congressional Research Service
3
3
link to page 8 link to page 8 link to page 8 link to page 8 link to page 7
link to page 8 link to page 8 link to page 8 link to page 8 link to page 7
FY2021 District of Columbia Appropriations
FY2021 proposed and enacted amounts of federal payments for the District of Columbia, as
FY2021 proposed and enacted amounts of federal payments for the District of Columbia, as
compared to the FY2020 enacted amounts.20 compared to the FY2020 enacted amounts.20
P.L. 116-260 also approved the expenditure of DC local funds as outlined in the
P.L. 116-260 also approved the expenditure of DC local funds as outlined in the
Fiscal Year 2021
Budget Request Act of 2020.21 .21
AdditionallyAdditional y, the act included a provision , the act included a provision
allowingal owing the use of DC the use of DC
government local funds in the event of any potentialgovernment local funds in the event of any potential
federal government shutdown in FY2022. A federal government shutdown in FY2022. A
similar provision has been included in similar provision has been included in
all appropriations billsal appropriations bil s since FY2013.22 since FY2013.22
Table 1. District of Columbia Appropriations, FY2020-FY2021: Federal Payments
In
In
Millions of DollarsMil ions of Dol ars
FY2021
FY2020
FY2021
FY2021
FY2021
Senate
FY2021
Enacted
District of
Presidential
House
Committee
Enacted
(P.L. 116-
Columbia
Budget
Passed
Majority
(P.L. 116-
93)
Request
Request
(H.R. 7617)
Draft
260)
Resident
Resident
Tuition Tuition
40.0
40.0
40.0
40.0
—
—
40.0
40.0
10.0
10.0
40.0
40.0
Support
Support
Emergency
Emergency
Planning and Planning and
Security
18.0
18.0
52.
52.
9a
51.4
51.4
52.9
52.9
38.4
38.4
38.
38.
4b
Security Costs Costs
DC Courts
DC Courts
250.1
250.1
267.8
267.8
267.8
267.8
265.6
265.6
242.5
242.5
250.1
250.1
Defender
Defender
Services
46.0
46.0
46.0
46.0
46.0
46.0
46.0
46.0
46.0
46.0
46.0
46.0
Services
Court Court
ServicesServices
and and
Offender Offender
248.5
248.5
—c
248.2
248.2
245.9
245.9
243.7
243.7
245.9
245.9
Supervision
Supervision
Agency Agency
The Public
The Public
Defender Defender
44.0
44.0
—c
44.2
44.2
44.0
44.0
46.2
46.2
46.2
46.2
Service
Service
Criminal
Criminal
Justice Justice
Coordinating Coordinating
2.2
2.2
2.2
2.2
1.8
1.8
2.2
2.2
1.8
1.8
2.2
2.2
Council
Council
Judicial
Judicial
Commissions
0.6
0.6
0.6
0.6
0.5
0.5
0.6
0.6
0.5
0.5
0.6
0.6
SchoolCommissions
School Improvement
52.5
52.5
90.0
90.0
90.0
90.0
52.5
52.5
60.0
60.0
52.5
52.5
Improvement
DC NationalDC National
Guard
0.4
0.4
0.4
0.4
0.4
0.4
0.4
0.4
0.4
0.4
0.6
0.6
Guard
20 Please note that not all of the funds 20 Please note that not all of the funds
inin Table 1 are directed to, or expended by, DCare directed to, or expended by, DC
government agencies. government agencies.
21 21
D.C. Law 23-136, Fiscal Year 2021 Local Budget Act of 2020, https://code.dccouncil.us/dc/council/laws/23-, https://code.dccouncil.us/dc/council/laws/23-
136.html. 136.html.
22 Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton, “Norton Assures Residents Budget22 Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton, “Norton Assures Residents Budget
Provision Will Keep D.C. Open if Federal Provision Will Keep D.C. Open if Federal
Government Shuts Down,” press release, December 8, 2020, https://norton.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/Government Shuts Down,” press release, December 8, 2020, https://norton.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/
norton-assures-residents-budgetnorton-assures-residents-budget
-provision-will-keep-dc-open-if-federal. -provision-will-keep-dc-open-if-federal.
Congressional Research Service
Congressional Research Service
4
4
link to page 8 link to page 8
link to page 8 link to page 8
FY2021 District of Columbia Appropriations
FY2021
FY2020
FY2021
FY2021
FY2021
Senate
FY2021
Enacted
District of
Presidential
House
Committee
Enacted
(P.L. 116-
Columbia
Budget
Passed
Majority
(P.L. 116-
93)
Request
Request
(H.R. 7617)
Draft
260)
Testing and
Testing and
Treatment of Treatment of
4.0
4.0
4.0
4.0
3.0
3.0
4.0
4.0
3.0
3.0
4.0
4.0
HIV/AIDS
HIV/AIDS
DC Water
DC Water
and Sewer and Sewer
8.0
8.0
8.0
8.0
—
—
8.0
8.0
8.0
8.0
8.0
8.0
AuthoritydAuthorityd
Federal
Payments
714..3e
511.9
753.3
762.1
700.5
734.5
Total
Sources: P.L. 116-93; D.C. Act 23-409, Fiscal Year 2021 Federal Portion Budget Request Act of 2020, P.L. 116-93; D.C. Act 23-409, Fiscal Year 2021 Federal Portion Budget Request Act of 2020,
https://lims.dccouncil.us/downloads/LIMS/45034/Signed_Act/B23-0762-Signed_Act.pdf; Office of Management and https://lims.dccouncil.us/downloads/LIMS/45034/Signed_Act/B23-0762-Signed_Act.pdf; Office of Management and
Budget, Budget,
A Budget for America’s Future: Appendix,,
February 2020, https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/BUDGET-February 2020, https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/BUDGET-
2021-APP/pdf/BUDGET-2021-APP.pdf; H.Rept. 116-456, Financial Services2021-APP/pdf/BUDGET-2021-APP.pdf; H.Rept. 116-456, Financial Services
and Generaland General
Government Government
Appropriations Bil ,Appropriations Bil ,
2021, https://www.congress.gov/congressional-report/116th-congress/house-report/456; 2021, https://www.congress.gov/congressional-report/116th-congress/house-report/456;
https://www.appropriations.senate.gov/news/committee-https://www.appropriations.senate.gov/news/committee-
releasesrelea ses-fy21-bil s-in-effort-to-advance-process-produce--fy21-bil s-in-effort-to-advance-process-produce-
bipartisan-results/; P.L. 116-260.bipartisan-results/; P.L. 116-260.
Notes: Figures may not sum to totals due to rounding. Figures may not sum to totals due to rounding.
a. This does not include amounts budgeted for COVID-19 relief.a. This does not include amounts budgeted for COVID-19 relief.
b. This amount includes approximately $21.9 mil ionb. This amount includes approximately $21.9 mil ion
for costs associated with the January 2021 Presidential for costs associated with the January 2021 Presidential
Inauguration.
Inauguration.
c. This item
c. This item
is not included in the DC Federalis not included in the DC Federal
Portion Budget Request Act. This is a Portion Budget Request Act. This is a
federally federal y chartered entity chartered entity
working exclusively
working exclusively
on behalf of the District.on behalf of the District.
Its budget request is submitted under a separate account. Its budget request is submitted under a separate account.
d. The federal payment for the DC Water and Sewer Authority includes a provision
d. The federal payment for the DC Water and Sewer Authority includes a provision
requiring a 100% matchrequiring a 100% match
from the authority.
from the authority.
e. The FY2020 enacted federal
e. The FY2020 enacted federal
payment total amount in this table does not include any supplemental payment total amount in this table does not include any supplemental
appropriations provided under the CARES Act.
appropriations provided under the CARES Act.
General Provisions: Key Policy Issues
GenerallyGeneral y, FSGG appropriations acts include a series of general provisions pertaining to federal , FSGG appropriations acts include a series of general provisions pertaining to federal
payments and other sources of DC budgetary funding. These provisions can be grouped into payments and other sources of DC budgetary funding. These provisions can be grouped into
several distinct but overlapping categories, with the most predominant being provisions related to several distinct but overlapping categories, with the most predominant being provisions related to
fiscal and budgetary directives and controls. Other provisions include administrative directives fiscal and budgetary directives and controls. Other provisions include administrative directives
and controls, limitations on lobbying for statehood or congressional voting representation, and controls, limitations on lobbying for statehood or congressional voting representation,
congressional oversight, and congressional oversight, and
congressionallycongressional y imposed restrictions and prohibitions related to imposed restrictions and prohibitions related to
social policy. social policy.
Title VIII of Division E of P.L. 116-260 enumerates such provisions for FY2021. The remainder
Title VIII of Division E of P.L. 116-260 enumerates such provisions for FY2021. The remainder
of this section provides an overview of some proposed and enacted provisions restricting or of this section provides an overview of some proposed and enacted provisions restricting or
prohibiting the use of federal and/or local funds for particular local social policy initiatives in prohibiting the use of federal and/or local funds for particular local social policy initiatives in
DC.23
23 Such DC.23
23 Such provisions are limitations (also known asprovisions are limitations (also known as
limitation provisions or, more colloquially, riders) that limitation provisions or, more colloquially, riders) that
restrict/prohibit the use of funds for certain purposes. For information on limitations, see CRSrestrict/prohibit the use of funds for certain purposes. For information on limitations, see CRS
Report R41634, Report R41634,
LimitationsLim itations in Appropriations Measures: An Overview of Procedural Issues, by, by
James V.James V.
Saturno. Saturno.
Congressional Research Service
Congressional Research Service
5
5
FY2021 District of Columbia Appropriations
Abortion Services
The use of public funding for abortion services in DC is a perennial issue debated in Congress The use of public funding for abortion services in DC is a perennial issue debated in Congress
during annual deliberations on DC appropriations.24 President Trump’s FY2021 budget request during annual deliberations on DC appropriations.24 President Trump’s FY2021 budget request
included a provision intended to continue existing restrictions on the use of any funds, federal or included a provision intended to continue existing restrictions on the use of any funds, federal or
local, by the DC government for abortion services, except in instances of rape, incest, or when the local, by the DC government for abortion services, except in instances of rape, incest, or when the
woman’s life would be endangered if the pregnancy were carried to term.25 The House-passed woman’s life would be endangered if the pregnancy were carried to term.25 The House-passed
FY2021 FSGG appropriations FY2021 FSGG appropriations
billbil , H.R. 7617, included a provision that would have restricted the , H.R. 7617, included a provision that would have restricted the
use of federal funds for the same purposes outlined in the President’s budget request, but it did use of federal funds for the same purposes outlined in the President’s budget request, but it did
not mention other sources of funding (i.e., local funds). A proposed provision in the Senate not mention other sources of funding (i.e., local funds). A proposed provision in the Senate
Committee on Appropriations majority draft would have prohibited the use of federalCommittee on Appropriations majority draft would have prohibited the use of federal
and local local
DC funds, with certain exceptions. As enacted, Section 810 of Title VIII of Division E of P.L. DC funds, with certain exceptions. As enacted, Section 810 of Title VIII of Division E of P.L.
116-260 similarly prohibits the use of any funds by the DC government to provide for abortion 116-260 similarly prohibits the use of any funds by the DC government to provide for abortion
services, stating: services, stating:
No funds available for obligation or expenditure by the District of Columbia government
No funds available for obligation or expenditure by the District of Columbia government
under any authority shall be expended for any abortion except where the life of the mother under any authority shall be expended for any abortion except where the life of the mother
would be endangered if the fetus were carried to term or where the pregnancy is the result would be endangered if the fetus were carried to term or where the pregnancy is the result
of an act of rape or incest. of an act of rape or incest.
DC Voting Representation in Congress
For several years, the general provisions of annual appropriation acts have prohibited the DC For several years, the general provisions of annual appropriation acts have prohibited the DC
government from using federal or local funds to lobby for voting representation in Congress, government from using federal or local funds to lobby for voting representation in Congress,
including statehood.26 P.L. 116-260 included three specific provisions limiting this type of activity including statehood.26 P.L. 116-260 included three specific provisions limiting this type of activity
in sections 802, 804, and 806 of Title VIII of Division E. The three provisions state: in sections 802, 804, and 806 of Title VIII of Division E. The three provisions state:
1. “None of the Federal funds provided in this Act
1. “None of the Federal funds provided in this Act
shall shal be used for publicity or be used for publicity or
propaganda purposes or implementation of any policy including boycott designed
propaganda purposes or implementation of any policy including boycott designed
to support or defeat legislation pending before Congress or any State legislature.” to support or defeat legislation pending before Congress or any State legislature.”
2. “None of the Federal funds provided in this Act may be used by the District of
2. “None of the Federal funds provided in this Act may be used by the District of
Columbia to provide for salaries, expenses, or other costs associated with the
Columbia to provide for salaries, expenses, or other costs associated with the
offices of United States Senator or United States Representative under section offices of United States Senator or United States Representative under section
4(d) of the District of Columbia Statehood Constitutional Convention Initiatives 4(d) of the District of Columbia Statehood Constitutional Convention Initiatives
of 1979 (D.C. Law 3-171; D.C. Official Code, sec. 1-123).” of 1979 (D.C. Law 3-171; D.C. Official Code, sec. 1-123).”
3. “None of the Federal funds contained in this Act may be used by the District of
3. “None of the Federal funds contained in this Act may be used by the District of
Columbia Attorney General or any other officer or entity of the District
Columbia Attorney General or any other officer or entity of the District
government to provide assistance for any petition drive or civil action which government to provide assistance for any petition drive or civil action which
seeks to require Congress to provide for voting representation in Congress for the seeks to require Congress to provide for voting representation in Congress for the
District of Columbia.” District of Columbia.”
SubstantiallySubstantial y similar provisions were included in the Trump Administration’s proposed budget similar provisions were included in the Trump Administration’s proposed budget
and the Senate Committee on Appropriations majority draft. These provisions were not included and the Senate Committee on Appropriations majority draft. These provisions were not included
24 Since
24 Since 1979, with the passage of the District of Columbia1979, with the passage of the District of Columbia
Appropriations Act of 1980 (P.L. 96-93; 93 Stat. 719), Appropriations Act of 1980 (P.L. 96-93; 93 Stat. 719),
CongressCongress
has placedhas placed
some limitation or prohibition on the use of public fundssome limitation or prohibition on the use of public funds
for abortion services for District for abortion services for District
residents. For a detailed overview of these provisions, see CRSresidents. For a detailed overview of these provisions, see CRS
Report R41772, Report R41772,
District of ColumbiaColum bia: A Brief Review
of Provisions in District of Columbia of Colum bia Appropriations Acts Restricting the Funding of Abortion Services. .
25 Office of Management and Budget,
25 Office of Management and Budget,
A Budget for America’s Future: Appendix, February 2020, , February 2020,
https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/BUDGEThttps://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/BUDGET
-2021-APP/pdf/BUDGET-2021-APP/pdf/BUDGET
-2021-APP.pdf. -2021-APP.pdf.
26 Several similar provisions date back to the 1980s and 1990s.
26 Several similar provisions date back to the 1980s and 1990s.
Congressional Research Service
Congressional Research Service
6
6
FY2021 District of Columbia Appropriations
among general provisions
among general provisions
specificallyspecifical y pertaining to DC in the version of FSGG appropriations pertaining to DC in the version of FSGG appropriations
that passed the House of Representatives (H.R. 7617).that passed the House of Representatives (H.R. 7617).
Needle Exchange
Addressing the spread of HIV and AIDS among intravenous drug abusers has been a policy issue Addressing the spread of HIV and AIDS among intravenous drug abusers has been a policy issue
of ongoing debate in congressional appropriations for DC.27 Some appropriations acts have of ongoing debate in congressional appropriations for DC.27 Some appropriations acts have
included provisions to prohibit or restrict the use of funds to establish a needle exchange program included provisions to prohibit or restrict the use of funds to establish a needle exchange program
aimed at reducing the spread of HIV and AIDS among users of aimed at reducing the spread of HIV and AIDS among users of
illegalil egal drugs. drugs.
The prohibition on the use of federal and District funds for a needle exchange program was first
The prohibition on the use of federal and District funds for a needle exchange program was first
approved by Congress as Section 170 of the District of Columbia Appropriations Act, 1999 approved by Congress as Section 170 of the District of Columbia Appropriations Act, 1999
(Division A of P.L. 105-277). The FY1999 act did (Division A of P.L. 105-277). The FY1999 act did
allowal ow private funding of needle exchange private funding of needle exchange
programs. The Financial Services and General Government Appropriations Act, 2008 (Division programs. The Financial Services and General Government Appropriations Act, 2008 (Division
D, Title VIII of P.L. 110-161) contained language that further modified the needle exchange D, Title VIII of P.L. 110-161) contained language that further modified the needle exchange
provision included in previous appropriations acts. This act provision included in previous appropriations acts. This act
allowedal owed the use of local funds for a the use of local funds for a
needle exchange program, a provision that has been continued in subsequent fiscal years. Under needle exchange program, a provision that has been continued in subsequent fiscal years. Under
the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2010 (Division C, Title VIII of P.L. 111-117), the provision the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2010 (Division C, Title VIII of P.L. 111-117), the provision
was further modified to prohibit the use of federal funds in locations deemed to be was further modified to prohibit the use of federal funds in locations deemed to be
“inappropriate” for needle exchange, by local professionals in public health or law enforcement. “inappropriate” for needle exchange, by local professionals in public health or law enforcement.
The Trump Administration’s FY2021 budget proposal included a provision that would have
The Trump Administration’s FY2021 budget proposal included a provision that would have
prohibited the use of federal funds for the distribution of needles or syringes for this purpose.28 As prohibited the use of federal funds for the distribution of needles or syringes for this purpose.28 As
passed in the House, H.R. 7617 did not include a provision restricting or prohibiting the use of passed in the House, H.R. 7617 did not include a provision restricting or prohibiting the use of
funds for needle or syringe distribution. The Senate committee majority version of FSGG funds for needle or syringe distribution. The Senate committee majority version of FSGG
appropriations would have continued the provision prohibiting the use of federal funds for related appropriations would have continued the provision prohibiting the use of federal funds for related
needle and syringe distribution. Section 807 of Title VIII of Divisionneedle and syringe distribution. Section 807 of Title VIII of Division
E of P.L. 116-260 continued E of P.L. 116-260 continued
the provision prohibiting the use of federal funds for this use, as stated below: the provision prohibiting the use of federal funds for this use, as stated below:
None of the Federal funds contained in this Act may be used to distribute
None of the Federal funds contained in this Act may be used to distribute
anyan y needle or needle or
syringe for the purpose of preventing the spread of blood borne pathogens in any location syringe for the purpose of preventing the spread of blood borne pathogens in any location
that has been determined by the local public health or local law enforcement authorities to that has been determined by the local public health or local law enforcement authorities to
be inappropriate for such distribution. be inappropriate for such distribution.
Schedule I Substances
Several general provisions included in appropriations acts have restricted or prohibited the DC Several general provisions included in appropriations acts have restricted or prohibited the DC
government from implementing local laws related to the legalizationgovernment from implementing local laws related to the legalization
or decriminalization of or decriminalization of
schedule I controlled substances, including marijuana.29 These provisions have varied depending schedule I controlled substances, including marijuana.29 These provisions have varied depending
on the legislationon the legislation
that they were designed to restrict, ranging from legalization to that they were designed to restrict, ranging from legalization to
decriminalization
decriminalization of such substances for medical or recreational purposes.30of such substances for medical or recreational purposes.30
27 Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton, “HIV Progress in D.C. Accelerated by Federal27 Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton, “HIV Progress in D.C. Accelerated by Federal
Payments Norton Secures and Her Payments Norton Secures and Her
Removal of the Needle Exchange Rider,”Removal of the Needle Exchange Rider,”
press release, Augustpress release, August
21, 2020, https://norton.house.gov/media-center/press-21, 2020, https://norton.house.gov/media-center/press-
releases/hiv-progress-in-dc-accelerated-by-federal-payments-norton-secures-and. releases/hiv-progress-in-dc-accelerated-by-federal-payments-norton-secures-and.
28 Office of Management and Budget,28 Office of Management and Budget,
A BudgetA Budget
for America’s Future: Appendix, Februaryfor America’s Future: Appendix, February
2020, 2020,
https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/BUDGEThttps://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/BUDGET
-2021-APP/pdf/BUDGET-2021-APP/pdf/BUDGET
-2021-APP.pdf. -2021-APP.pdf.
29 For a definition of schedule
29 For a definition of schedule
I substances, see 21 U.S.C.I substances, see 21 U.S.C.
§812. §812.
30 In 1998, District of Columbia voters approved Initiative 59, which allowed the use of medical marijuana to assist 30 In 1998, District of Columbia voters approved Initiative 59, which allowed the use of medical marijuana to assist
persons sufferingpersons suffering
from debilitating health conditions and diseases,from debilitating health conditions and diseases,
including includin g cancer and HIVcancer and HIV
infection. infection.
TheT he certification and implementation of the initiative, however, were delayedcertification and implementation of the initiative, however, were delayed
over a decadeover a decade
by by Congress dueCongress due
to the passage to the passage
of the “Barr Amendment,” which, in a seriesof the “Barr Amendment,” which, in a series
of DC appropriations acts, prohibited the use of appropriated funds to of DC appropriations acts, prohibited the use of appropriated funds to
Congressional Research Service
Congressional Research Service
7
7
FY2021 District of Columbia Appropriations
In 2014, the DC Council passed the “Marijuana Possession Decriminalization Amendment Act of
In 2014, the DC Council passed the “Marijuana Possession Decriminalization Amendment Act of
2014”31 that decriminalized the possession of 2014”31 that decriminalized the possession of
small smal amounts of marijuana by making such amounts of marijuana by making such
activity a civil violation subject to a civil fine of $25.32 The act went into effect in July 2014. Also activity a civil violation subject to a civil fine of $25.32 The act went into effect in July 2014. Also
in 2014, almost 65% of DC voters voted to approve Initiative 71 to legalizein 2014, almost 65% of DC voters voted to approve Initiative 71 to legalize
the possession, the possession,
growth, and exchange of certain amounts of marijuana among individuals aged 21 and older in growth, and exchange of certain amounts of marijuana among individuals aged 21 and older in
DC.33 Subsequently, the Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act, 2015 (P.L. DC.33 Subsequently, the Consolidated and Further Continuing Appropriations Act, 2015 (P.L.
113-235) included a general provision prohibiting the use of funds contained in the act to carry 113-235) included a general provision prohibiting the use of funds contained in the act to carry
out such laws or regulations. Similar provisions have been included in subsequent appropriations out such laws or regulations. Similar provisions have been included in subsequent appropriations
acts. In November, 2020, approximately 76% of DC voters voted to approve acts. In November, 2020, approximately 76% of DC voters voted to approve
ballotbal ot Initiative 81, Initiative 81,
to decriminalize some psychedelic plants and fungi.34 to decriminalize some psychedelic plants and fungi.34
The Trump Administration’s FY2021 budget proposal and the Senate Appropriations Committee
The Trump Administration’s FY2021 budget proposal and the Senate Appropriations Committee
majority draft included a provision that would have prohibited the use of any funds to enact or majority draft included a provision that would have prohibited the use of any funds to enact or
implement the legalizationimplement the legalization
or decriminalizationor decriminalization
of schedule I substances. The of schedule I substances. The
bill bil that passed the that passed the
House of Representatives, H.R. 7617, did not include this provision. As enacted, Section 809 of House of Representatives, H.R. 7617, did not include this provision. As enacted, Section 809 of
Title VIII of Division E of P.L. 116-260 continued the provision prohibiting the use of federal and Title VIII of Division E of P.L. 116-260 continued the provision prohibiting the use of federal and
local funds for the legalization or decriminalizationlocal funds for the legalization or decriminalization
of schedule I substances in DC, as stated of schedule I substances in DC, as stated
below: below:
(a) None of the Federal funds contained in this Act may be used to enact or carry out any
(a) None of the Federal funds contained in this Act may be used to enact or carry out any
law, rule, or regulationlaw, rule, or regulation
to to legalize or otherwiselegalize or otherwise
reduce penalties associated with reduce penalties associated with the the
possession, use, or distribution of any schedule I substance under the possession, use, or distribution of any schedule I substance under the
ControlledControled Substances Act (21 U.S.C. 801 et seq.) or any tetrahydrocannabinols derivative. Substances Act (21 U.S.C. 801 et seq.) or any tetrahydrocannabinols derivative.
(b) No funds available for obligation
(b) No funds available for obligation
or expenditureor expenditure
by the District of by the District of
Columbia government under any authority may be used to enact any law, rule, or regulation Co lumbia government under any authority may be used to enact any law, rule, or regulation to to
legalize or otherwise reduce penalties associated with the possession, use, or distribution legalize or otherwise reduce penalties associated with the possession, use, or distribution
of any schedule I substance under the Controlled Substances Act (21 U.S.C. 801 et seq.) of any schedule I substance under the Controlled Substances Act (21 U.S.C. 801 et seq.)
or any tetrahydrocannabinols derivative for recreational purposes. or any tetrahydrocannabinols derivative for recreational purposes.
Concluding Observations
Congress maintains plenary authority over DC legislation and budgets, as granted under the U.S. Congress maintains plenary authority over DC legislation and budgets, as granted under the U.S.
Constitution. One way in which Congress has exercised its authority has been through general Constitution. One way in which Congress has exercised its authority has been through general
provisions in annual federal appropriations legislation. Some Members of Congress have provisions in annual federal appropriations legislation. Some Members of Congress have
proposed legislation that would modify the role of Congress in passing local DC legislation. For proposed legislation that would modify the role of Congress in passing local DC legislation. For
instance, in the 117th Congress, Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton introduced the District of instance, in the 117th Congress, Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton introduced the District of
Columbia Legislative Autonomy Act (H.R. 411), which would amend the DC Home Rule Act by Columbia Legislative Autonomy Act (H.R. 411), which would amend the DC Home Rule Act by
eliminating
eliminating the process of congressional review for legislation passed by the DC Council. the process of congressional review for legislation passed by the DC Council.
Other proposed legislation related to voting representation in Congress for DC residents, would
Other proposed legislation related to voting representation in Congress for DC residents, would
also likely change the role of Congress in local legislation and policy decisions. For information also likely change the role of Congress in local legislation and policy decisions. For information
conduct any ballot initiative that sought to legalize marijuana or otherwise reduceconduct any ballot initiative that sought to legalize marijuana or otherwise reduce
penalties for its use. penalties for its use.
31 District of Columbia
31 District of Columbia
Council, Council,
Marijuana Possession Decriminalization Amendment Act of 2014 , July 2014, , July 2014,
https://code.dccouncil.us/dc/council/laws/20-126.html. https://code.dccouncil.us/dc/council/laws/20-126.html.
32 Aaron C. Davis, “32 Aaron C. Davis, “
D.C. Council Votes to Eliminate Jail D.C. Council Votes to Eliminate Jail
TimeT ime for Marijuana Possession for Marijuana Possession
,” ,”
Washington Post, March 5, , March 5,
2014. 2014.
33 District of Columbia
33 District of Columbia
Council, Council,
Legalization of Possession of Minimal Amounts of Marijuana for Personal Use
Initiative of 2014, February 2015, https://code.dccouncil.us/dc/council/laws/20-153.html. , February 2015, https://code.dccouncil.us/dc/council/laws/20-153.html.
34 Justin Wm. Moyer, “D.C. Voters Approve Ballot Question to Decriminalize Psychedelic Mushrooms,” 34 Justin Wm. Moyer, “D.C. Voters Approve Ballot Question to Decriminalize Psychedelic Mushrooms,”
Washington
Post, November 3, 2020, https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/dc-politics/dc-magic-mushrooms-result/2020/11/03/, November 3, 2020, https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/dc-politics/dc-magic-mushrooms-result/2020/11/03/
bb929e86-1abc-11eb-bb35-2dcfdab0a345_story.html. bb929e86-1abc-11eb-bb35-2dcfdab0a345_story.html.
Congressional Research Service
Congressional Research Service
8
8
FY2021 District of Columbia Appropriations
on some such proposed legislation, please see CRS Insight IN11599,
on some such proposed legislation, please see CRS Insight IN11599,
District of Columbia Voting
Representation Proposals in the 117th Congress, by Joseph V. Jaroscak., by Joseph V. Jaroscak.
Author Information
Joseph V. Jaroscak Joseph V. Jaroscak
Analyst in Economic Development Policy
Analyst in Economic Development Policy
Disclaimer
This document was prepared by the Congressional Research Service (CRS). CRS serves as nonpartisan
This document was prepared by the Congressional Research Service (CRS). CRS serves as nonpartisan
shared staff to congressional committees and Members of Congress. It operates solely at the behest of and shared staff to congressional committees and Members of Congress. It operates solely at the behest of and
under the direction of Congress. Information in a CRS Report should under the direction of Congress. Information in a CRS Report should
notn ot be relied upon for purposes other be relied upon for purposes other
than public understanding of information that has been provided by CRS to Members of Congress in than public understanding of information that has been provided by CRS to Members of Congress in
connection with CRS’s institutional role. CRS Reports, as a work of the United States Government, are not connection with CRS’s institutional role. CRS Reports, as a work of the United States Government, are not
subject to copyright protection in the United States. Any CRS Report may be reproduced and distributed in subject to copyright protection in the United States. Any CRS Report may be reproduced and distributed in
its entirety without permission from CRS. However, as a CRS Report may include copyrighted images or its entirety without permission from CRS. However, as a CRS Report may include copyrighted images or
material from a third party, you may need to obtain the permission of the copyright holder if you wish to material from a third party, you may need to obtain the permission of the copyright holder if you wish to
copy or otherwise use copyrighted material. copy or otherwise use copyrighted material.
Congressional Research Service
Congressional Research Service
R46763
R46763
· VERSION 12 · NEW
9
9