The Council has modified our normal public procedures to maintain social distancing and protect the health and safety of all participants. The public can provide testimony to the Committee on Education by calling 202.430.5720 and leaving a three-minute voicemail or emailing testimony to astrange@dccouncil.us by 5pm on June 23, 2020. Testimony received 48 hours before the hearing dates below for relevant agencies will be sent to all Councilmembers and the agency representatives. More information about the entire Council budget process can be found here.
For Immediate Release:
April 22, 2020
Contact:
Matthew Nocella, 202.286.1987 - mnocella@dccouncil.us
Ongoing pandemic offers lessons for protecting the Earth
Councilmember Grosso commemorates the 50th Anniversary of Earth Day
Washington, D.C. – The following is a statement from Councilmember David Grosso on the fiftieth anniversary of Earth Day:
“Today marks the fiftieth anniversary of Earth Day, an opportunity to reflect on the collective impact of our actions on a planet we share with 7 billion other people and hope to bequeath to countless future generations. The ongoing global pandemic overshadows this day, but there are lessons applicable in our fight against the coming climate crisis. The spread of coronavirus has demonstrated the perils of ignoring or downplaying warnings from the scientific community. It has illustrated that our borders are imaginary and that events in one part of the world reverberate globally. And it calls us to act today to stop the crises of tomorrow from taking hold and to mitigate their effects.
“I’m proud of the work of the District of Columbia to take environmental protection and climate change seriously. We’ve set ambitious targets to halve our greenhouse gas emissions, and our efforts to provide a cleaner Anacostia River for all District residents to enjoy are working.
“Unfortunately, combating climate change and preparing for its impacts–even acknowledging its existence–has become another partisan fight in our country. Without strong efforts to curb greenhouse gas emissions at the federal level we have begun to usher in extreme weather and rising waters. And this pandemic has highlighted the inequities and environmental injustice suffered by vulnerable people across the city and the globe. Those with preexisting conditions such as asthma and diabetes, often suffered by people who live in polluted communities with limited access to healthy, nutritious foods, are most affected by the coronavirus. These people will be hardest hit, not only by our nation’s inaction to address climate change, but also by our deliberate attempts to exacerbate it. As the attention of local and state governments and advocates are focused on the public health and economic crisis, the Trump administration is dismantling environmental protections such as emissions standards for cars and power plants. Let’s not allow this to go unnoticed.
“You don’t have to be a part of the policy making process to do your part. Earth day cleanups, celebrations, and protests may be canceled, but from afar we can take a moment to reflect on how we’ve treated the Earth and ask ourselves how we can eventually emerge from our homes and go back out into the world with renewed appreciation for Earth’s beauty. Pause today and note the positive effects of humans treading more lightly. As so many of us stay home, we are providing a respite for the Earth. As people stop scurrying all over the planet by plane and boat and automobile, scientists have noticed the canals in Venice getting cleaner and endangered turtles hatching and surviving the trip to the ocean in Brazil. Even locally, the District of Columbia has enjoyed better air quality.
“Going forward, we can vow to treat the Earth better by making better choices in our transportation modes and how we power our homes, at the ballot box, and as we weigh our needs and wants versus the Earth’s when it comes to our consumption habits. Limited in our activities today, we can ask ourselves what do we really need? Can we treat the Earth and the people who live on it better?”
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For Immediate Release:
April 17, 2020
Contact:
Matthew Nocella, 202.286.1987 - mnocella@dccouncil.us
D.C.’s commitment to human rights is even more important during coronavirus pandemic
Councilmember Grosso calls for greater efforts to protect health and safety of inmates
Washington, D.C. – The following is a statement from Councilmember David Grosso on the need to center human rights of incarcerated D.C. residents during the District government’s response to the coronavirus public health emergency:
“Yesterday’s commemoration of Emancipation Day reminds all of us in the District of Columbia of our obligation to human rights, racial equity, and freedom. We must remain fully committed to those obligations in our response to the coronavirus crisis. Regardless of the issue we are tackling it is imperative that every day we lift up the voices of our residents that are most often left behind.
“I am extremely concerned with the disparate impact of the coronavirus on our vulnerable populations, particularly residents in the D.C. jail and federal Bureau of Prison facilities. A new independent inspector’s report has raised serious concerns about the conditions that inmates and staff face at the D.C. jail and on Monday a prisoner tragically became the first person at the facility to die from COVID-19. The District of Columbia government must act urgently to prevent that number from skyrocketing. Yet the fractured control over our criminal legal system—between local and federal agencies—inhibits our ability to do so. We cannot let that challenge stop us.
“The Mayor and her executive agencies, the D.C. Council, D.C. Superior Court, Bureau of Prisons, U.S. Parole Board, prosecutors, and public defenders have all taken important steps to mitigate the grave risk that COVID-19 poses to incarcerated individuals and staff working in the criminal legal system. Limiting new entries, expediting releases, and improving conditions are critical to reducing the tremendous harm of this pandemic. However, we must do more to avoid the disastrous results we are seeing in other jurisdictions, where hundreds of prisoners have tested positive for the virus.
“The Council and Mayor must identify more ways to release as many people as possible who do not present a danger to the community, whether those individuals are housed in our jails, St. Elizabeths Hospital, or in federal Bureau of Prisons facilities. However, the status of most of those individuals who remain behind bars is determined by federal agencies. The Superior Court, U.S. Attorney’s Office, U.S. Parole Board, and Bureau of Prisons must increase their efforts to expedite release of those already eligible as well as expand release eligibility. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, in particular, has unnecessarily opposed the release of more people, endangering their wellbeing. No one is sentenced to death in D.C., and no one should die from this virus while incarcerated when they could have been released.
“Some constituents worry that the orders to stay at home and for people to wear masks in many settings could lead to new people entering the criminal legal system. I am thankful for the Mayor’s clear and consistent emphasis not on confrontation, but on education. We have seen the unfortunate results from other jurisdictions when outdated mentalities of policing are applied to this situation—several officers yanking a man off of a bus for not wearing a mask, for example. We must ensure that nothing like that happens here.
“This pandemic is exacerbating already harmful problems in society, many a result of our country’s racist past and present. We must be extra vigilant in counteracting these issues with our emergency response. Combating racism and its legacy is what Emancipation Day is all about. That effort is even more important during this crisis.”
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Councilmember Grosso wants to hear from students, teachers, parents, administrators, and education advocates about what's working and what needs improvement in the education sector's changes brought on by D.C.'s response to the coronavirus pandemic. The Councilmember will be collecting this feedback between April 14-April 20th.
This can include:
Distance Education Delivery
Student Meal Distribution
Student physical & mental well-being
Other education issues
The public can provide feedback through various channels.
Call 202.709.8035 and leave a voicemail, 3 minutes or less.
Text feedback to 202.709.8035
Tweet using the hashtag #DCHomeEdu
Email the Committee on Education at astrange@dccouncil.us.
For Immediate Release:
April 7, 2020
Contact:
Matthew Nocella, 202.286.1987 - mnocella@dccouncil.us
Council passes second emergency bill in response to coronavirus
Statement of Councilmember David Grosso
Washington, D.C. – The following is a statement from Councilmember David Grosso on the second emergency legislation passed by the Council of the District of Columbia in response to the ongoing coronavirus public health emergency in D.C.:
“The emergency measure the Council passed today builds upon our first response package passed two weeks ago as the coronavirus first began to take hold in the District of Columbia. It includes relief for students, tenants, consumers, workers, and more.
“As chairperson of the Committee on Education, I want to ensure our high school students’ futures are not put on hold due to this pandemic. Today’s legislation keeps our students on track by waiving the community service hours requirement for graduating seniors and also the in-seat time requirement for courses that occur during the pandemic. These changes are necessary given the time constraints before the end of the year, the uncertain schedule for the remainder of the school year, and the need for social distancing.
“The measure also creates greater financial stability for workers able to access unemployment insurance; supports our local small businesses as they weather this crisis; better protects the health of those involved in our justice system; improves our health care system’s preparedness to handle the ever increasing workload; and allows for the continuity of our government’s operations and electoral processes.
“I appreciate the Chairman’s responsiveness to calls to restore a provision that guarantees residential, as well as commercial, tenants share in the benefits of their landlords’ mortgage deferrals.
“I am, however, disappointed that the bill leaves behind workers most in need of assistance like day laborers, domestic workers, street vendors, and undocumented residents, who are already routinely excluded from traditional government social safety net programs. This virus and its economic impact know no profession, immigration status, or other identifying factor, and nor should the assistance we are extending to our residents.
“While the Council and executive are going to continue to discuss policy proposals that will get desperately needed aid to these excluded workers, words cannot express my appreciation for the many local organizations that are filling the gap and offering material and cash assistance to these individuals. I hope that we can find a solution before it is too late and these workers experience irreparable financial ruin.
“As this public health emergency continues, I know this will certainly not be the last action the Council will have to take to protect our residents’ health, blunt the economic impact of this pandemic, and begin to recover.
“I look forward to continuing to work with the Mayor and my Council colleagues to continue to address this unprecedented crisis, and ensure all residents of the District of Columbia–especially those most vulnerable to the economic downturn associated with this virus–have the tools they need to survive now, and thrive once this pandemic is under control.
“Remember: please stay home if you can, for the safety of yourself, your loved ones, and your neighbors. Additional resources for residents can be found on my website www.davidgrosso.org and updates and guidance on D.C.’s response to the coronavirus pandemic can be found at coronavirus.dc.gov.”
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Please visit coronavirus.dc.gov for all the latest updates and resources on the coronavirus public health emergency
For Everyone
Tax filing deadline extended: The deadline for D.C. taxpayers to file and pay their 2019 District of Columbia individual and fiduciary income tax returns, partnership tax returns, and franchise tax returns is extended to July 15, 2020. This means taxpayers will have an additional 90 days to file and pay from the original deadline of April 15, 2020. More info.
The Internal Revenue Service has also extended the federal filing and payment deadline to July 15, 2020.
Applying or re-applying for public benefits: Individuals who already receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), Medicaid, DC Health Care Alliance, and other public benefits provided by the Department of Human Services, do not need to take any action at this time to continue receiving existing benefits that would otherwise expire on March 31 or April 30. Those benefits will be automatically extended.
For new applications for SNAP, TANF, Medicaid, Alliance or other public benefits, please go to dhs.dc.gov or visit their Service Centers to pick up a blank application. Applicants can drop off completed applications for benefits at DHS Service Centers and may be contacted by phone as necessary to complete the eligibility process. DHS is forgoing formal interviews for the time being and any subsequent questions will take place via phone. While there is no interim approval, because of the streamlined process (and the fact that all mid-certification and re-certifications have an automatic process), DHS is able to process new applications in less than 48 hours.
New applicants still have some verification requirements.
For Medicaid and Alliance: All verifications are waived except U.S. citizenship and eligible immigration status, which must be verified (for Medicaid but not Alliance). For all other eligibility factors, the agency accepts self-attestations.
For SNAP and TANF: verifications are still needed (we are working with the feds to obtain a waiver, and then would align TANF with that).
Residents with questions about their benefits should contact the Call Center at (202) 727-5355 from 7:30-4:45 pm.
Voting in the June 2 Primary and June 16 Ward 2 Special Elections: District officials are encouraging all residents to request mail-in ballots to ensure they can exercise their right to vote while maintaining social distancing during the ongoing public health emergency.
Voters can request mail-in ballots online by clicking here, via the DC Board of Elections’ mobile app (vote4dc), or by mailing or dropping off in person a ballot request form to the DC Board of Elections, 1015 Half Street SE, Suite 750, Washington, DC 20003. Voters can also call the DCBOE at (202) 727-2525 or (202) 741-5283, but due to expected high volumes of callers, calls may not be answered immediately.
As a result of COVID-19 pandemic guidance from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and other health experts, the District of Columbia’s 144 voting precincts, which contain the polling stations where voters cast their ballots, will remain closed on election days in June 2020.
Instead, the 15 early voting centers, where early voting typically occurs, will be expanded to 20 to accommodate additional voters. The BOE strongly urges voters to request a mail-in ballot instead of voting in person.
Click here full information from the DC Board of Elections on how to Vote Safe!
DC Mutual Aid Network is a relief system where members of the D.C. community come together to support one another during the pandemic. Mutual aid creates a symbiotic relationship, where all people offer material goods or assistance to one another. The mutual aid network is volunteer-run and driven by the needs articulated by community members.
Find ways to access the network in your ward here.
Essential items and food delivery: District residents who have been directed by a medical provider to self-quarantine, or have no other means to acquire essential items can access the COVID-19 Needs Hotline and Web Portal to request food and other essential items be delivered to your homes. Qualifying residents can also call 1-888-349-8323 or visit coronavirus.dc.gov/gethelp to request assistance.
For Students & Learners
Free meals: Families in need of meals for their students may pick up shelf-stable breakfasts and to-go lunches at any of the 20+ locations across the District. ALL students (public, charter, private) are welcome. The following links below are updated daily with new meal sites, including DC Central Kitchen mobile sites, and can be used to find meal locations closest to you.
Please note: Meal sites are operating at different times, look below each location to find out when they are open for meal pick-up.
List of DCPS, charter school, DC Central Kitchen meal sites and Metro bus lines serving these meal sites: https://coronavirus.dc.gov/mealsites
EmpowerK12’s meal site finder tool: https://empowerk12.org/student-meals-covid-19
The Mayor has announced the creation of the DC Education Equity Fund to be used to increase access to the Internet and purchase digital devices for students who need them to complete distance education. Residents can learn more about the Fund and how to give at http://dcedequity.org.
Free & reduced internet plans: Due to the modified schedules and distance education plans for all District schools, Comcast and Spectrum will be offering free internet access to low-income families whose students need remote education access. For more information:
Spectrum: https://www.spectrum.net/support/internet/coronavirus-covid-19-information-spectrum-customers/
D.C. Public Library closed, but resources available online: All DC Public Libraries are currently closed. The Library will be locking all book drops so please keep borrowed items until the Library reopens. All late fees will be waived and hold expirations will be extended. DCPL invites you to explore their digital offerings by visiting goDigital. goDigital contains over 15 million free online movies, eBooks, music and more from the DC Public Library, all free with your library card. Don’t have a library card? Apply online.
Learning about coronavirus: PBS has a guide for caregivers on how to talk to your kids about coronavirus and NPR published a comic about coronavirus just for kids to learn about the ongoing pandemic.
For Families
Families seeking access to additional food resources during the public health emergency can now acquire groceries from any of the 10 weekday grocery distribution sites at District schools in partnership with Martha’s Table and DC Central Kitchen. Residents can pick up pre-packed grocery bags, which include fresh produce and dry goods.
Please note that groceries are being distributed on a first come, first served basis.
Distribution sites are available to all families in need of food access and are open Monday – Friday, 12:30 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.:
Monday:
(Ward 5) Brookland Middle School, 150 Michigan Avenue, NE
(Ward 6) Eastern Senior High School, 1700 East Capitol Street, NE
Tuesdays:
(Ward 7) Kelly Miller Middle School, 301 49th Street, NE
(Ward 8) Stanton Elementary School, 2701 Naylor Road, SE
Wednesdays:
(Ward 4) Coolidge High School/Ida B. Wells Middle School, 6315 5th Street, NW
(Ward 7) Woodson High School, 540 55th Street, NE
Thursdays:
(Ward 8) Anacostia High School, 1601 16th Street, SE
(Ward 7) Kimball Elementary School, 3375 Minnesota Avenue, SE
Fridays:
(Ward 8) Ballou High School, 3401 4th Street, SE
(Ward 1) Columbia Heights Education Campus, 3101 16th Street, NW
For Tenants and Homeowners
Evictions and utility cut-offs prohibited: The Council has passed legislation prohibiting evictions and utility cut-offs for electric, gas, and water services during the public health emergency. Tenants, homeowners, and consumers should report violations of these new protections to the Attorney General’s Office of Consumer Protection by:
Calling (202) 442-9828
Emailing Consumer.Protection@dc.gov
For Seniors
The Department of Aging and Community Living (DACL) remains operational: They will continue to provide service, however, there may be changes to how some services are provided. If you need assistance, you may call (202) 724-5626 to learn more about DACL’s operating status, programs, and services. Click here for more info.
Local groceries reserving hours for seniors to shop: Local grocery stories have set aside operational hours for seniors and other individuals who are vulnerable to coronavirus to shop.
Giant: 6am-7am daily is for "seniors and other vulnerable folks" (starts Friday 3/20).
Safeway: 7am-9am Tuesday & Thursday.
Target: 8am-9am, daily.
Whole Foods: 7am-8am, daily, for those 60 years of age or older.
For Workers
Unemployment benefits expanded: Workers whose jobs have been affected in some way by the public health emergency may be able to claim unemployment insurance with no waiting period and no requirement to be actively searching for work. You can apply for unemployment online through the D.C. Department of Employment Services or via phone at 202-724-7000. Councilmember Silverman, who chairs the Committee on Labor and Workforce Development, has put together a handy resource guide for unemployment insurance.
For excluded workers who are not eligible to receive unemployment insurance: We recognize that some workers have been excluded from the unemployment benefits eligibility, but various community organizations have come together to serve street vendors, sex workers, hospitality workers and more who cannot access funds at this time. Below is a list of organizations and their resources for those in need of support during the public health emergency, as well as ways to help communities in need.
For Domestic Workers
The National Domestic Workers Alliance has established the Coronavirus Care Fund to provide emergency assistance for home care workers, nannies and house cleaners to support them in staying safe and staying home to slow the spread of the coronavirus, and to care for themselves and their families.
You can learn more about COVID-19 resources available to domestic workers here.
For Hospitality Workers
DC Virtual Tip Jar: Local community members and fellow service workers have a “virtual tip jar” to help bartenders and servers from their favorite establishments. There is a public spreadsheet with the names of workers and where they are (or were) employed. Hospitality workers who want to be added just need to fill out this simple questionnaire.
Another Round Another Rally is helping hospitality workers facing unprecedented hardship by supplying relief grants. If someone holds any type of hospitality role - chef, server, bartender, dishwasher, sommelier, manager- and has lost their job or had their hours slashed in the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak, they are eligible to apply.
Learn more about how to participate here.
Chef Edward Lee’s Restaurant Workers Relief Program - Chef Edward Lee and his partners at Knead Hospitality have transformed their Penn Quarter restaurant Succotash on 915 F St., NW into a relief center to help restaurant workers who’ve been laid off or had their hours and pay slashed.
Every day from 5 to 8 PM, the program is offering free to-go meals, fresh produce, and other supplies such as diapers, aspirin, and canned foods. Around 250 meals will be available every evening with a limit of two per person. To participate, bring an ID and proof of recent restaurant employment (such as a paystub).
Those wanting more information can email Christina Perdomo at christina@kneadhd.com.
Hook Hall hospitality industry assistance center- The Park View Hook Hall location is providing restaurant and bar workers with free meals and emergency supply kits containing everything from toilet paper to canned soup. Together with the Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington, they created a coronavirus worker relief fund that will aid those efforts.
You can learn more about the fund here.
For Street Vendors
Many Languages One Voice is using donated funds and resources to support local street vendors who are most in need. The funds will be used to buy gift cards that people can use for groceries and food. You can check out their work and resources here.
For Sex Workers
Relief Fund for Sex Workers: No Justice No Pride, HIPS and other #DecrimNow organizations are collaborating on a relief fund to D.C. and DMV-based sex workers impacted by the coronavirus outbreak. As has been reported, sex workers are facing unique challenges with the pandemic. Funds acquired from relief donations will be used to provide emergency microgrants to be given to transgender sex workers - for food, bill and travel assistance, for cleaning, hygiene, sanitation and other related essentials, housing, and replenishing supplies provided by DecrimNowDC Groups that are currently in high demand by community members.
You can learn more about this fund here.
For Businesses
Unemployment benefits expanded: Workers whose jobs have been affected in some way by the public health emergency may be able to claim unemployment insurance with no waiting period and no requirement to be actively searching for work. You can apply for unemployment online through the D.C. Department of Employment Services or via phone at 202-724-7000. Councilmember Silverman, who chairs the Committee on Labor and Workforce Development, has put together a handy resource guide for unemployment insurance.
Local grants and loans for small businesses, nonprofits, individual contractors, and the self-employed: Pursuant to the “COVID-19 Response Emergency Amendment Act of 2020” effective March 17, 2020 (D.C. Act 23-247), the DC Small Business Recovery Microgrant Program will offer grants to small, local businesses, individual contractors, self-employed individuals, and nonprofits to meet their short-term financial needs. The grant can cover employee wages and benefits (including fringe benefits associated with employment, such as health insurance), accounts payable, fixed costs, inventory, rent, and utilities. Learn more and apply here.
Federal small business loans: Mayor Muriel Bowser announced that the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has accepted the District of Columbia’s declaration for assistance in the form of economic injury disaster loans following the advent of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), and DC businesses can start applying now. More info and how to apply: https://coronavirus.dc.gov/recovery
Tax payment due dates for businesses extended: The hotel property tax installment due date from March 31, 2020 to June 30, 2020. Other DCRA-licensed vendors required to file February 2020 and March 2020 returns for sales taxes must now file returns and pay in full the gross sales receipt taxes by June 30, 2020.
Restaurants can serve closed container alcohol to-go: Emergency legislation has authorized restaurants switching to carry out or delivery to serve closed-container wine, beer, and spirits along with food. Before an eligible restaurant may sell beer, wine, and spirits for carry-out and delivery, they must submit a brief online registration form. Registrants will receive an automatically generated email confirmation within minutes of their submission. Upon receiving written confirmation from ABRA, no further action is required and there is no fee to register or participate. More info from ABRA.
For Individuals Experiencing Homelessness
Low-barrier, emergency, family, and youth shelters will remain open.
Monday, March 16th through Wednesday, April 1st, low barrier shelters are extending daytime hours and serving meals.
The Virginia Williams Family Resource Center is closed for in-person interviews until April 1.
Families seeking emergency shelter should call the DC Shelter Hotline at 202.399.7093 or 311, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. More info.
For Immigrants and Undocumented Residents
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has instituted exceptions to the public charge rule in order to encourage immigrants to get tested and treated for COVID-19 without fear of negative impacts on their visa extensions or green card processes. To help ensure that all of our residents understand their rights, the District of Columbia has released new FAQs regarding the Public Charge Rule and COVID-19.
We’ve reached out to United We Dream who indicated that any adverse financial effects because of COVID-19 would not count for a public charge determination. When applying for a green card, individuals should write a statement explaining how they were affected and include that in your adjustment of status application (this includes DACA recipients as well). If you have additional questions, Claudia Quinonez, Local Field Manager for United We Dream, has offered herself as a resource and can be reached at claudia@unitedwedream.org. Check out this helpful infographic from United We Dream.
While we understand that many undocumented individuals cannot access public benefits or health insurance, DC Health maintains a list of free, low-cost, or community health care centers located across the District of Columbia should you need medical attention. Check it out here and learn more through United We Dream's Healthcare access for Undocumented Folks in the Time of COVID19 Guide.
Ayuda is providing a wide range of immigration legal services to the immigrant populations in the DC metro area. The organization has created a fund for low-income immigrant neighbors during the COVID-19 health emergency that covers immediate needs such as food, emergency housing, medical care, and direct cash assistance.
To learn more about how to support or be supported by the fund visit their website for more information.
The Betancourt Macias Family Scholarship Foundation has created a resource guide for undocumented families who are navigating the COVID-19 public health emergency. To receive support or find additional information, you can visit their website.
For Health and Wellness
Protect everyone’s health through social distancing: To “flatten the curve” and stop the spread of the virus, public health experts advise against hosting social gatherings, mass congregations and engaging in any crowds. At this time, it is important to remain 6 feet apart from others, to limit germs being spread. You should also:
Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds multiple times a day. An alcohol-based hand sanitizer can be used if soap and water are not available
Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands
If feeling any type of symptoms, call your primary care provider and keep track of symptoms as they come. Listen to your doctor’s instructions before going to a healthcare facility and be sure to self-quarantine.
If coughing or sneezing into a tissue, throw the tissue in the trash
Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces (door knobs, faucets, countertops)
Everyone who can should be staying home and only going out for essential trips for food or medicine. This is especially true for “high risk” individuals (older adults and those with preexisting/chronic medical conditions).
Protecting your mental health: Social distancing can be a difficult time for those experiencing depression and other mental health challenges. If you need someone to talk to during this time, the Department of Behavioral Health’s 24-hour hotline with telephone access to a mental health clinician and 24-hour suicide prevention lifeline (1-888- 793-4357) is always available and ready to serve. Learn more here: https://dbh.dc.gov/services. In the case of an emergency, the Community Response Team will continue to respond to adults in psychiatric crisis in the home or community for counseling and transportation to emergency treatment if needed.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline also provides a 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals. To access the hotline, call 1-800-273-8255 or chat online.
Accessing adequate supplies of prescription medications: Under emergency legislation, pharmacists may prescribe and dispense a one-time refill of patient prescription medications prior to the expiration of the waiting period between refills to allow residents to maintain an adequate supply of medication. CVS Pharmacy is waiving charges for home delivery of prescription medications. More info on that here.
Accessing domestic violence and sexual assault organizations: The COVID-19 public health emergency, social distancing, and stay-at-home orders can escalate an already abusive situation. For those experiencing any type of abuse at this time, advocates are working 24/7 for you.
For more information, including resources for victims looking to speak directly with an advocate, please contact the DC Victim Hotline (1-844-443-5732), access the organization’s online chat or find additional resources on the D.C. Coalition Against Domestic Violence’s website readily available. The National Domestic Violence Hotline is also ready to serve with their 24/7 hotline at (1-800-799-7233), however if survivors need a discreet form of contact, they can also access the organization’s website or text LOVEIS to 22522 for help.
For those experiencing or looking to report suspected child abuse of any kind, please contact D.C. Children and Family Services Agency's hotline at 202.671.7233 or visit Safe Shores DC at safeshores.org for access to resources and advocates.
For Medical Marijuana participants
The D.C. Department of Health and Mayor Bowser are now allowing District-registered dispensaries to provide medical marijuana to District residents registered as qualifying patients through delivery, curbside pickup, and at-the-door pickup options.
Medical marijuana dispensaries are considered essential businesses as healthcare and public health operators necessary to protect the health, safety, and welfare of District residents.
To qualify, dispensaries must comply with specific requirements outlined in the rulemaking found here.
For Volunteers
Serve DC – The Mayor’s Office on Volunteerism & Partnerships – is the District of Columbia Government agency dedicated to promoting service. Visit their website for information about volunteer opportunities.
The District of Columbia (DC) Medical Reserve Corps (DC MRC) supports the DC Department of Health (DC Health) in its role as lead for public health and medical emergency preparedness, response and recovery by recruiting, training, and deploying medical and non-medical volunteers to assist with planned events and emergencies. Learn more and apply here.
Today Councilmember David Grosso, along with Chairman Phil Mendelson, and Councilmembers Anita Bonds, Elissa Silverman, Robert White, Brianne Nadeau, Mary Cheh, Brandon Todd, Charles Allen, Vince Gray, and Trayon White, sent a letter to Mayor Bowser urging her to include individual musicians, artists and other independent contractors who are already suffering from lost earnings, in the new public health emergency grant program.
“The musician or deejay who would play at the shuttered nightclub needs just as much help as the employees at that same business who are able to access unemployment insurance. Please consult with residents who are self-employed in the creative economy in your development of this program. Their involvement is necessary for this effort to achieve its goals.”
You can read the letter below:
For Immediate Release:
March 17, 2020
Contact:
Matthew Nocella, 202.286.1987 - mnocella@dccouncil.us
Update from Councilmember Grosso regarding the passing of emergency legislation for COVID-19
Washington, D.C. – The following is an update from Councilmember David Grosso (I-At Large) regarding the passing of emergency legislation for COVID-19 protections and procedures:
The last few days have been an extraordinary test for the residents of the District of Columbia. The need to protect the health and safety of our neighbors has impacted all of our daily lives but I appreciate everything each resident is doing to help us “flatten the curve”, limit the effects of the ongoing global pandemic, and ensuring that our health care system isn't overwhelmed. Please continue to practice responsible social distancing, contacting your health care provider if you are experiencing symptoms, and looking out for your neighbors as best you can.
Remember that coronavirus.dc.gov is the best all-in-one resource during the public health emergency. Check in often for new updates.
The coronavirus public health emergency will have a tremendous economic impact on all of our residents. A strong social safety net is integral to mitigate its impacts on our neighbors and businesses. I’m proud of the collaboration between the Council and the Mayor that has resulted in emergency legislation passed today that shores up that safety net in the face of these challenging times.
Below you will find some highlights of the bill. As always, you can contact me and my team at 202.724.8015 or via email. You can find all of Team Grosso’s contact information here.
Protecting residents’ health, safety, and financial stability
Workers whose work is affected in some way by the public health emergency will be able to access unemployment insurance with no waiting period and no requirement to be actively searching for work. Learn how to file claims here.
Extends D.C. Family and Medical Leave Act protections and loosens requirements to workers affected by the public health emergency, regardless of employer’s number of employees.
Extends and ensures continuity of benefits for residents under assistance programs, including TANF, SNAP, and the DC Health Care Alliance.
Makes price gouging and stockpiling illegal to ensure every resident can access adequate food and household goods.
Prohibits utilities from cutting off electricity, water, gas services and stops evictions during the public health emergency.
Allows residents to access adequate supplies of vital prescriptions by waiving waiting period for pharmacy refills.
Extends the validity of expired licenses and registrations, such as the drivers’ or professional licenses, that require an in-person renewal.
Empowers insurance commissioner to take actions to protect consumers during a public health emergency.
Supporting our local small businesses
Creates a grant and loan program for small business–including non-profits, contractors, and self-employed individuals–that can be used to pay employee wages and benefits, operating costs including taxes and debt service, and repayment of SBA loans.
Extends tax payment due dates for certain businesses in the District.
Allows restaurants switching to carry out or delivery to serve closed-container wine, beer, and spirits along with food.
Aiding our neighbors who are experiencing homelessness
Extends limits and lowers barriers on shelter placements during a public health emergency.
Empowers the mayor to protect the health and safety of those residing in shelter.
Ensuring continued government operations
Provides the mayor greater powers to effectively respond to a public health emergency.
Allows Council to meet virtually.
Waives requirements for Advisory Neighborhood Commissions to meet during a public health emergency but also allows them to meet virtually.
Extends deadline for mayor to submit annual budget proposal from March 19, 2020 to May 6, 2020.
For Immediate Release:
March 16, 2020
Contact:
Matthew Nocella, 202.286.1987 - mnocella@dccouncil.us
Statement of Councilmember Grosso on indictment of former Virginia clergyman
Washington, D.C. – The following is a statement from Councilmember David Grosso (I-At Large) regarding the Virginia Attorney General's announcement of an indictment against a former clergyman for carnal knowledge of a minor:
“Last week, the Commonwealth of Virginia indicted and detained Mr. Scott Asalone for criminal sexual abuse of a minor that occurred in the 1980s while he was a Catholic priest assigned to Saint Francis de Sales Church in Purcellville, VA. The minor he assaulted was me.
“This occurred during a very difficult time of my life. Since then, I have been working through the negative impact of this abuse on my life. With the loving support of my wife Serra and my family, I am proud of the progress I have made.
“Though the deep scars remain, I largely believed this incident was behind me, especially after I underwent intensive therapy in the 1990s. However, state authorities in Virginia recently obtained the Catholic Diocese of Arlington’s internal file on my case. Consequently, law enforcement contacted me regarding the case several times over the past year.
“This new investigation into a crime the Diocese attempted to bury for decades has ripped open old wounds, stirred dark memories and caused fresh trauma as I have been forced vividly to relive the tragic events of my childhood. I have again received therapy and made difficult decisions to advance my recovery. My conclusion not to seek another term as a Councilmember was heavily influenced by this new case. State authorities asked me to provide testimony to the grand jury in Fairfax, and I did so, only to prevent Mr. Asalone from ever hurting another child.
“Evidence I presented, including my testimony, resulted in the issuance of a criminal indictment on one count of carnal knowledge of a minor, a class IV felony. I understand that Mr. Asalone was taken into custody on Saturday in New Jersey and is in the process of being extradited to Virginia.
“I am making this statement because I understand the tremendous burden that victims of sexual assault and abuse carry throughout their lives. As I did many years ago, we all must find the courage to come forward, tell our stories, and seek justice and accountability from the perpetrator, as well as the churches and other institutions that have hidden or excused their behavior.
“I greatly appreciate the work of Virginia Attorney General Mark Herring, law enforcement officers, and prosecutors. I believe the system can and will work to bring justice in mine and many other cases. As a legislator, I’ve had the additional responsibility of ensuring that victims have every available option open to them to pursue justice, including ending the statute of limitations for sexual abuse in the District of Columbia.
“Most importantly, victims of sexual assault and abuse should know that there are resources in the District of Columbia to help you. I encourage you to contact the DC Victim Hotline at 1.844.4HELPDC (1.844.443.5732) or online at www.DCvictim.org/chat. For more information and resources on the two-year window to file previously expired civil sexual abuse cases in DC, visit: http://bit.ly/2yearwindow.”
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Student Loan Borrower Bill of Rights Act of 2020
Introduced: March 3, 2020
Co-introducers: Councilmembers Anita Bonds, Robert White, Elissa Silverman, Brianne Nadeau and Mary Cheh
Summary: To amend the Department of Insurance and Securities Regulation Establishment Act of 1996 to prevent abusive acts or practices on the part of student loan servicers, to clarify that student loan servicers under contract with the United States Department of Education shall automatically be issued a limited student loan servicing license upon meeting certain criteria; to clarify denials of applications for approval; to proscribe prohibited conduct on the part of student loan servicers; to assign affirmative duties to student loan servicers; to assign the Attorney General of the District of Columbia the power to enforce the Act; to transfer the Student Loan Ombudsperson from the Department of Insurance, Securities and Banking to the Office of the Attorney General for the District of Columbia; and require the creation of a Student Loan Borrower Bill of Rights by October 1, 2021.
Councilmember Grosso's Introduction Statement:
Thank you Mr. Chairman.
Today, along with Councilmembers Bonds, Cheh, Nadeau, and Silverman, I am introducing the Student Loan Borrower Bill of Rights Amendment Act of 2020.
As we all know, having a college education is an important requirement for entry into many jobs and professions with students and their families assuming a financial burden in exchange for a successful future.
To ease the burden, student loans make college accessible to students coming from all income levels, allowing them to pursue their educational endeavors—but at a cost.
On average, repayment rates often negatively affect first-generation college students, along with Black and Latinx students who are more likely to fall behind on loan payments and are less likely to pay off their student loans over time.
Student loan debt is at a crisis level with an estimated 1.5 trillion dollars owed in student loan debt nationally.
In the District of Columbia, the average student loan balance is approximately $56,000 while the national rate for the average student loan balance is approximately $37,000.
The Student Loan Borrower Bill of Rights Amendment Act of 2020 will ensure that student loan borrowers in the District of Columbia are protected from abusive acts or practices on the part of lenders.
This bill establishes protections including a Student Loans Bill of Rights and providing borrowers with affirmative protections when submitting written inquiries to their servicers, when splitting single payments across multiple loans, and when their loans are sold or transferred to another servicer.
D.C. Law already prohibits debt collectors, auto lenders, and other loan-based companies from misleading or causing harm to borrowers, and with this bill in place, student loans lenders would be no different.
The proposed bill would also move the Student Loan Ombudsperson from the Department of Insurance, Securities and Banking to the Office of the Attorney General to streamline the complaint referral process when enforcement action is needed while also capitalizing on the existing subject matter expertise of OAG staff.
The Student Loan Ombudsperson assists with the regulation of student loan services, conducts important outreach to assist D.C. residents who are preparing for college and who have already acquired student loan debt.
Finally, this bill provides for a private right of action when borrowers believe they have been victims of abusive acts and violations of the law on the part of student loan servicers.
Pursuing an education using the financial help of a loan provider should not be coupled with the fear that one will not be able to pay or be disadvantaged in the payment process.
I would like to thank the Student Borrower Protection Center for their continued advocacy and partnership with my office on this and many other initiatives to protect D.C.’s student loan borrowers.
Thank you, and I welcome any co-sponsors.
For Immediate Release:
March 3, 2020
Contact:
Matthew Nocella, 202.724.8105 - mnocella@dccouncil.us
Councilmember Grosso introduces bill to strengthen protections for student loan borrowers
Washington, D.C. – Today, Councilmember David Grosso introduced legislation to protect student loan borrowers from abusive practices by lenders and improve the work of the District’s Student Loan Ombudsperson, which Grosso created through legislation in 2017.
“A college education is an important requirement for entry into many jobs and professions, and student loans make college accessible to students from all income levels–but at a cost,” said Grosso. “On average, repayment rates often negatively affect first-generation college students, along with Black and Latinx students who are more likely to fall behind on loan payments and are less likely to pay off their student loans over time. D.C. needs to act to ensure our residents who carry student loan debt are protected.”
Student loan debt has reached crisis level in the United States, with $1.5 trillion worth of debt already accrued nationally. In the District, the average student loan balance is approximately $56,000 while the national rate for the average student borrower is approximately $37,000 of student debt. Due to the gradual increase of school tuition rates, the rise of student loan borrowers is also set to increase, leaving vulnerable populations susceptible to these lenders.
The Student Loan Borrower Bill of Rights Amendment Act of 2020 establishes a Student Loan Bill of Rights that provides borrowers with affirmative protections when submitting written inquiries to their servicers, when splitting single payments across multiple loans, and when their loans are sold or transferred to another servicer. It also prohibits unfair, deceptive, or abusive acts and practices by student loan lenders.
“Because the District of Columbia already prohibits debt collectors, auto lenders, and other loan-based companies from misleading or causing harm to borrowers, this bill would hold student loans lenders accountable to the same standards,” said Grosso.
Grosso also hopes to improve the effectiveness of the District’s Student Loan Ombudsperson by moving it from the Department of Insurance, Securities and Banking to the Office of the Attorney General.
“The Attorney General’s office has been providing many of the same functions of the student loan ombudsperson, including handling complaints, creating and distributing student loan repayment resources, and engaging in community outreach. Moving the student loan ombudsperson to the AG’s office would streamline the complaint referral process when enforcement action is needed while also capitalizing on the existing subject matter expertise of the staff,” said Grosso.
Attorney General Karl A. Racine agrees.
“Nearly a quarter of District residents are under the strain of student loan debt, with a median balance that is 44 percent higher than the national average,” said Attorney General Racine. “Former students struggling to pay off their debt are acutely vulnerable to predatory student loan servicers that make it harder to access debt repayment options—and drive too many residents, especially those in communities East of the River, into delinquency. The Office of the Attorney General strongly supports Councilmember Grosso’s proposal to strengthen protections for student borrowers, and we take this opportunity to remind debt collectors and servicers that our lawyers are ready to defend residents against unlawful practices.”
The Student Borrower Protection Center, nonprofit organization focused on alleviating the burden of student debt for millions of Americans, also endorsed the legislation.
"The District of Columbia is ground zero in the student loan crisis. From breakdowns that deny teachers and public service workers their right to relief, to the enormous disparities devastating borrowers of color, predatory student loan companies are wreaking havoc on the financial lives of some of the most vulnerable residents,” said Seth Frotman, the organization’s Executive Director and former Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Student Loan Ombudsman. “As the Trump Administration chooses to stand with unscrupulous student loan companies, it is more important than ever that the District pass critical new protections for its residents.”
“I would like to thank the Student Borrower Protection Center for their continued advocacy and partnership with my office on this and many other initiatives to protect D.C.’s student loan borrowers, Attorney General Karl Racine for his support and his office’s consumer protection work, and Councilmembers Anita Bonds, Elissa Silverman, Robert White, Brianne Nadeau, and Mary for joining me as co-introducers of this legislation,” said Grosso.
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Councilmember David Grosso sent a letter to the Washington Metro Area Transit Authority’s General Manager Paul Wiedefeld, urging him to consider the implications of cashless bus service.
“As this policy seeks to push cash users to utilize a SmarTrip, it will lengthen their commutes because it will be difficult and potentially expensive to find and use a SmartTrip machine unless they happen to live, work, or go to school near a Metrorail station or WMATA retail partner. This is particularly concerning for residents in Wards 7 and 8, where only 3 non-Metrorail station sales locations exist.”
You can read the letter below:
Today, Councilmember Grosso sent a letter to the Mayor to ask her to proactively engage with the new Bureau of Prisons’ halfway house contractor and the nearby communities to ensure success for our returning citizens and address community concerns.
“Through proactive action, we can position the facility for successful reintegration of our residents and the shared prosperity of the nearby community. Our returning citizens who will be staying at the halfway house, the contractor running the facility, the community, and our government agencies must be partners in this effort.”
You can read the full letter below and here.
For Immediate Release:
February 4, 2020
Contact:
Matthew Nocella, 202.724.8105 - mnocella@dccouncil.us
Councilmember Grosso aims to prevent future ethics scandals with bill to close BEGA loopholes
Washington, D.C. – Today, Councilmember David Grosso introduced legislation that will strengthen laws requiring a high level of ethical conduct from elected officials and government employees and ensure greater compliance with the District’s ethics laws.
“The Council’s experience over the last several months was not one I would wish on any legislative body. A member exploited his position and relationships for his own personal gain and would’ve nearly gotten away with it had it not been for persistent media reports and mounting public pressure for action,” said Grosso. “It is now time to take some of the lessons learned from that painful process to tighten up our ethics laws where appropriate and mitigate the risk of corrupt activity by members in the future.”
Based on the O’Melveny and Meyers Report and the work of the Ad Hoc Committee in the matter of then-Councilmember Jack Evans, the BEGA Loophole Closure Amendment Act of 2020 seeks to clarify ambiguities and close gaps in the Government Ethics Act of 2011.
It requires the Board of Ethics and Government Accountability to conduct its mandatory training on the Code of Conduct every year and to analyze public officials’ financial disclosures for accuracy and completeness, and to provide feedback. The bill also clarifies that clients of an employee’s affiliated organization be listed in financial disclosure forms.
The bill also expands on current law prohibiting an employee from using their official position or title in a manner that could benefit their personal financial interests, or the financial interests of a person closely affiliated with the employee. Under the bill, that definition would include an employee’s family member, and an employee’s affiliated organization–which is an organization in which the employee serves as an officer, director, or employee, an organization in which the employee has a financial interest, or a prospective employer.
Finally, the BEGA Loophole Closure Amendment Act expands the public official employment prohibition on lobbying to encompass advising or consulting for an entity with business before the District government, or for an advisor or consultant for such entities.
“My hope is that this is just the beginning of the conversation about how to move on in the wake of the recent scandal this body has endured,” said Grosso. “Working together, I’m sure the Council can identify other areas of our ethics laws that we can include in this bill throughout the legislative process.”
Councilmembers Anita Bonds, Elissa Silverman, Charles Allen, and Mary Cheh joined Grosso as co-introducers of the bill.
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For Immediate Release:
February 4, 2020
Contact:
Matthew Nocella, 202.724.8105 - mnocella@dccouncil.us
Councilmember Grosso introduces legislation to codify net neutrality protections in the District
Washington, D.C. – Today, Councilmember David Grosso introduced the Consumer Net Neutrality Protection Act of 2020 which would codify net neutrality protections in the District of Columbia and prohibit internet service providers from engaging in discriminatory practices such as blocking content and impairing consumer internet usage.
“A free and open Internet is critical to our society. Consumers rely on broadband connectivity to drive growth, personal and community development, but also to facilitate public debate and government accountability,” said Grosso. “Net neutrality is also crucial for small business owners, startups and entrepreneurs, who rely on the open internet to launch their enterprises, create markets, advertise their products and services, and reach consumers.”
In 2015, the Federal Communications Committee under Obama appointees established net neutrality protections for telecommunications services. Those protections were later repealed in 2017 under the Trump-appointed FCC Chairman.
With the repeal of these net neutrality protections, internet service providers are permitted to block or slow down Internet access, demand pay-to play from websites or applications, or otherwise interfere with end users’ access to the Internet.
Since then, federal courts have upheld the FCC’s repeal of net neutrality, but left it up to states to write their own regulations.
Under Grosso’s bill, internet service providers will be prohibited from discriminating against information and lawful internet traffic by blocking, slowing down, or engaging in paid prioritization.
“This will benefit all internet users in the District of Columbia by establishing our own net neutrality protections that prohibit discriminatory, anti-consumer, and anti-competitive conduct by broadband providers,” said Grosso.
Presently, nine states have enacted their own versions of net neutrality legislation while 34 states have introduced legislation attempting to reestablish net neutrality protections. If passed, the District of Columbia would join jurisdictions, such as California and New York, that have committed to ensuring an open and free Internet for all, that allows room for transparent and consumer-oriented conduct by internet service providers.
“Every DC resident has the right to equal access of all lawful content using any lawful device in the District. And we as elected leaders must stand up for that right,” said Grosso.
Councilmembers Anita Bonds, Elissa Silverman, and Mary Cheh joined Grosso as co-introducers of the bill.
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Consumer Net Neutrality Protection Act of 2020
Introduced: February 4, 2020
Co-introducers: Councilmembers Anita Bonds, Elissa Silverman, and Mary Cheh
Summary: To prohibit fixed and mobile internet service providers that provide broadband internet access service from engaging in specified actions concerning the treatment of lawful Internet traffic, among other things, such as blocking lawful content, applications, services, or nonharmful devices, impairing or degrading lawful internet traffic on the basis of internet content, application, or service, or use of a nonharmful device, and specified practices relating to zero-rating; and to prohibit fixed and mobile internet service providers from offering or providing services other than broadband internet access services that are delivered over the same last-mile connection as the broadband internet access service, if those services have the purpose or effect of evading the above-described prohibitions or negatively affecting performance or broadband internet access service.
Councilmember Grosso's Introduction Statement:
Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
Today, along with Councilmembers Silverman, Cheh, Bonds, I am introducing the Consumer Net Neutrality Protection Act of 2020 which would codify net neutrality protections for the District of Columbia and its residents.
In 2015, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) under Obama appointees, established net neutrality protections for telecommunications services: prohibiting the blocking of lawful internet content, throttling, and paid prioritization of content.
But in 2017, under a Trump-appointed Chairman, the FCC repealed those protections, endangering our residents’ access to an open internet.
With the repeal of these net neutrality protections, Internet service providers are permitted to block or slow down Internet access, demand pay-to play from websites and apps, or otherwise interfere with our residents’ open access to the Internet.
While federal courts ultimately upheld the FCC’s repeal of net neutrality protections, at the same time they left the door open for states and local governments to write their own regulations.
The bill I propose today will benefit all internet users in the District of Columbia by establishing our own net neutrality protections that prohibit discriminatory, anti-consumer, and anti-competitive conduct by broadband providers.
ISPs will be prohibited from discriminating against information and lawful internet traffic by blocking, slowing down, or engaging in paid prioritization.
A free and open Internet is critical to our society. Consumers rely on broadband connectivity to drive growth, personal and community development, but also to facilitate public debate and government accountability.
It is crucial for small business owners, startups and entrepreneurs, who rely on the open internet to launch their enterprises, create markets, advertise their products and services, and reach consumers.
It is also integral to our political system and the right to free speech. Without net neutrality, movements like Black Lives Matter, Me Too, and protests against the president’s Muslim ban may never have happened.
At present, 9 states have enacted their own versions of net neutrality legislation. And, 34 states have introduced legislation attempting to reestablish net neutrality protections.
If passed, we will join states like California, Washington, New York, and many other jurisdictions in declaring our commitment to ensuring an open and free Internet for all, and ensuring our commitment to transparency, and nondiscriminatory practices for our networks.
Every DC resident has the right to equal access of all lawful content using any lawful device in the District. And we as elected leaders must stand up for that right.
Thank you, and I welcome any co-sponsors.
BEGA Loophole Closure Amendment Act of 2020
Introduced: February 4, 2020
Co-introducers: Councilmembers Anita Bonds, Elissa Silverman, Charles Allen and Mary Cheh
Summary: To amend the Board of Ethics and Government Accountability Establishment and Comprehensive Ethics Reform Amendment Act of 2011 to establish formal processes to identify address and resolve conflicts of interests and appearances of conflict; to clarify who may be included as closely affiliated to an employee; and to expand restrictions on employee’s outside employment.
Councilmember Grosso's Introduction Statement:
Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Today, along with Councilmembers Allen, Bonds, Silverman, and Cheh, I am introducing the BEGA Loophole Closure Amendment Act of 2020.
This bill was informed by the O’Melveny and Meyers Report, and the work of the Ad Hoc Committee in the matter of Jack Evans.
The report identified a few areas within the Government of Ethics Act of 2011 that are in need of clarification and loopholes in need of closing.
The Council’s experience over the last several months was not one I would wish on any legislative body.
A member exploited his relationships with the Council and the Government for his own personal gain and would’ve nearly gotten away with it had it not been for persistent media reports and mounting public pressure for action.
It is now time to take some of the lessons learned from that painful process to ensure that we tighten up our ethics laws where appropriate to mitigate the risk of corrupt activity by members in the future.
That is what I seek to do today with the introduction of the BEGA Loophole Closure Amendment Act. Among other things, this Act will require that BEGA conduct its mandatory training on the Code of Conduct annually;
It requires BEGA to analyze financial disclosures for accuracy and completeness, and to provide feedback when public officials submit inaccurate or incomplete financial disclosures;
Currently, law prohibits an employee from using their official position or title in a manner that the employee knows is likely to have a direct and predictable effect on the employee’s financial interests, or the financial interests of a person closely affiliated with the employee.
This bill adds two new categories to this prohibition to include an employee’s family member, and an employee’s affiliated organization, which is defined in the Ethics Act as an organization on which the employee serves as an officer, director, or employee, an organization in which the employee has a financial interest, or a prospective employer.
The bill also clarifies that clients of employee’s affiliated organization be listed in financial disclosure forms.
And, finally the BEGA Loophole Closure Amendment Act expands the public official employment prohibition.
Currently there is only a prohibition on public officials lobbying, this Act also prohibits public officials from being an advisor or consultant for an entity with business before the District of Columbia, or an advisor or consultant for an entity that represents one or more clients with business before the District.
My hope is that this is just the beginning of the conversation about how to move on in the wake of the recent scandal this body has endured.
Working together, I’m sure we can identify other areas of our ethics law that we can include in this bill throughout the legislative process.
Thank you, and I welcome any co-sponsors.
Councilmember Grosso, as chairperson of the Committee on Education, has received responses from the following agencies under the committee’s purview as part of the annual performance oversight process:
State Board of Education
Office of the Ombudsman for Public Education
Office of the Student Advocate
Public Charter School Board
Deputy Mayor for Education
D.C. Public Schools
Office of the State Superintendent of Education
You can find the Committee's questions and agencies’ responses here.
This post will be updated as outstanding agencies submit their pre-hearing responses, including D.C. Public Library and D.C. State Athletic Association.
The Committee will hold performance oversight hearings from late January until early March. A full schedule and form for public witnesses to sign-up to testify can be found here.
For Immediate Release:
January 22, 2020
Contact:
Matthew Nocella, 202.724.8105 - mnocella@dccouncil.us
Government Operations Committee unanimously approves Councilmember Grosso’s bill to protect reproductive health rights in the District of Columbia
Statement of Councilmember David Grosso
Washington, D.C. – The following is a statement from Councilmember David Grosso, member of the Committee on Government Operations, on today’s unanimous approval of his Strengthening Reproductive Health Protections Amendment Act of 2019 by the Committee on Government Operations:
“Today we celebrate 47 years of reproductive health freedom in the United States. On this day in 1973, the Supreme Court decided the landmark case Roe v. Wade, extending Constitutional protection to an individual’s decision to have an abortion. However, states across the country–emboldened by an anti-choice president and Republican Senate majority that has radically reshaped the federal judiciary–seek to attack and weaken one’s right to make their own reproductive health choices free from government interference. It is more important than ever to enact policies that articulate a positive right protecting safe, legal abortion.
“Today, Committee on Government Operations set the District of Columbia on a path to join a growing movement of states that seek to positively and proactively protect the people’s right to make their own reproductive health decisions. My Strengthening Reproductive Health Protections Amendment Act of 2019 will enshrine a positive right to choose into the D.C. Human Rights Act, leaving no doubt that D.C. residents have the right, in consultation with their doctor and free from government interference, to make medical decisions about contraception, abortion, or carrying a pregnancy to term.
“I appreciate Councilmember Brandon Todd’s leadership of the Committee on Government Operations and his swiftly advancing this legislation through the legislative process. I urge Chairman Mendelson to continue that momentum through quick consideration by the Committee of the Whole and full Council.
“Everyone deserves more access to health care, not less. We need lasting protection for reproductive health access now, no matter what happens in Congress, in other states, or in the courts. This bill will help to secure a future that safeguards abortion care and respects decision-making.”
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DOPA Disclosure Amendment Act of 2020
Introduced: January 21, 2020
Summary: To amend the Rental Housing Conversion and Sale Act of 1980 to require the Mayor to provide an annual report regarding the assignment of the District’s opportunity to purchase affordable housing to third party entities.
Councilmember Grosso's Introduction Statement:
Today, along with Councilmember Anita Bonds, I am introducing the DOPA Disclosure Amendment Act of 2020.
In 2008 Council established and enacted the District Opportunity to Purchase Act, which gives the right to the District of Columbia to purchase buildings with five or more dwelling units with at least 25% affordable housing.
The goal of the legislation was to employ the resources of government to preserve and expand affordable housing units.
DOPA contained a provision allowing the District of Columbia to assign its rights to purchase to third party entities.
Regulations from the 2008 law were not finalized until November 2018, a decade later.
In May of 2019, the Mayor announced 40 pre-qualified developers who can be assigned the District’s right to purchase.
Unfortunately, nearly 12 years after enactment, the District of Columbia still has not exercised its right to purchase a single property, and the District has missed too many opportunities to purchase.
This bill requires the Mayor to submit a detailed annual report that must disclose:
Assignees’ demonstrated capacity and expertise in affordable housing;
The evaluation criteria by which third party assignees consider the purchase of a property that is DOPA eligible;
The percentage of units that are considered affordable;
The number of units per property;
The average rent by unit type per property;
The subsequent sale price of properties;
A summary of communications between the assignee and the Mayor per property, among other requirements.
The District of Columbia cannot afford to waste any more time when it comes to preserving and expanding affordable housing.
There is an imbalance in our housing stock combined with rising rents and housing costs, that is displacing mostly low-income families and families of color.
DOPA was intended to be another tool to address our affordable housing crisis, and so far, it’s not even been taken out of the toolbox.
The intent of this legislation is to further understand why this tool is not being used, and once it’s finally taken out of the toolbox, how it is being utilized.
With that, I welcome any co-sponsors, and yield the balance of my time to my primary co-introducer, Councilmember Anita Bonds.