Public Meetings - Washington, District Of Columbia

Councilmember Charles Allen (Ward 6) reconvened the public hearing of the Committee on Transportation and the Environment on Thursday, July 2, 2026, at 1:17 PM in Room 500 of the John A. Wilson Building and via Zoom. The hearing had been recessed on Monday, June 29, after hearing from approximately 40 public witnesses. This session focused on government witness testimony regarding Bill 26-596 – the Utility Rates and Rate Making Amendment Act of 2026 – and additional executive branch proposals to lower electric and gas rates. The bill would require the Public Service Commission (PSC) to base multi-year rate plans on historic test years without reconciliation, specify refund mechanisms for excess return on equity, and require cost-benefit analysis for gas infrastructure projects. The hearing featured three panels: (1) the Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE) and the Office of the City Administrator; (2) the Public Service Commission and the Office of the People's Counsel (OPC); and (3) the Office of the Attorney General (OAG). The written record remains open until July 13, 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - The first portion of the hearing on June 29 included approximately 40 public witnesses whose suggestions raised important questions about future energy program design. DOEE Director Richard Jackson expressed appreciation for the depth of engagement from residents, community organizations, and businesses. - The Chair noted that the public comment period for this hearing is closed, but written testimony will be accepted through July 13, 2026. Discussion Items Panel 1: DOEE and City Administrator - City Administrator Kevin Donahue and Director Jackson, joined by DOEE Energy Policy Advisor Peter Damrosh and Deputy City Administrator Jenny Reed, presented a comprehensive analysis of rising energy costs and a seven-part solution set. They highlighted that average annual residential electric bills grew only 8% from 2015 to 2022 but surged 56% from 2022 to 2025. Without changes, the average annual bill could exceed $3,000. They attributed the increase to regional generation costs (driven by data center demand and PJM market rules), transmission costs, distribution investments, renewable portfolio standard (RPS) costs, and surcharges. The RPS cost grew from $65 million in 2020 to $272.6 million in 2025, far exceeding the $123.4 million total multi-year rate increase approved for Pepco. - The executive branch offered qualified support for Bill 26-596, recommending amendments to include performance incentive mechanisms (PIMs) for grid interconnection speed and peak demand reduction, and promised to provide additional technical suggestions after the hearing. - Proposed solutions included: (1) collaborating with other states to pressure PJM for market reforms; (2) balancing infrastructure investments with affordability, possibly using budget-constrained models; (3) expanding demand-side measures such as time-of-use rates, battery storage, and energy efficiency; (4) streamlining local solar deployment; (5) resetting the RPS to align with the district’s 2045 climate goals and freezing the solar carve-out at 10%, which could save residents approximately $15 per year; (6) strengthening oversight of third-party energy retailers through a Budget Support Act subtitle; and (7) maximizing use of district-owned land for energy projects. - The Chair questioned the executive on the RPS proposal, noting that benefits such as reduced energy purchases and local economic development were not fully captured in the cost-only analysis. DOEE acknowledged the need for further stakeholder engagement. The executive also discussed the BSA subtitle on retail suppliers, stating that the average residential retail customer pays 70% more than Pepco’s standard offer service, and low-income customers pay 80% more. They argued the proposal, which caps prices 10% above default service and allows PSC exemptions, is more balanced than Maryland’s approach. Panel 2: Public Service Commission and Office of the People’s Counsel - PSC Chairman Emil C. Thompson provided context on the bill, noting that the commission regulates only 27% of the electric bill (distribution), while 57% is generation supply costs (not regulated by PSC). He reported that generation supply rose from $35/month (2020) to $80/month (2025), largely due to capacity costs increasing from $29/MW-day to $330/MW-day and RPS costs. He cautioned against hasty legislation, emphasizing that rate-making is a complex, evidence-based process and urged the committee to consult independent experts. He noted that DC’s residential rate (25.41¢/kWh) is lower than other high-clean-energy jurisdictions (e.g., Connecticut 32.24¢, California 35.25¢). On multi-year plans, he stated the commission has no preference between traditional and multi-year, but stressed the importance of upfront planning and stakeholder processes. He opposed rigid legislative caps, citing potential unintended consequences. He supported the BSA subtitle on third-party suppliers as a necessary consumer protection. - OPC Senior Assistant People’s Counsel Ankur Nayar expressed support for Bill 26-596, arguing that multi-year rate plans have shifted risk to ratepayers without commensurate benefits. He noted that Pepco’s first pilot saw $150 million in unapproved expenditures. He recommended clarifying that reconciliations should only be allowed when they result in customer credits (not upward charges), requiring MRPs to include PIMs, and mandating a traditional test-year filing alongside any MRP application. He also called for a pause on future MRPs until safeguards are developed. On the BSA subtitle, OPC supported the crackdown on bad actors but warned of administrative burdens for good actors. - Chairman Thompson also highlighted the need for transparent trade-offs, using DC Water’s clean rivers project as an example of public buy-in despite a 141% rate increase. He noted that solar customers bypass many surcharges, shifting costs to other ratepayers. Panel 3: Office of the Attorney General - Special Assistant Attorney General Shilpa Sadas Avam testified that OAG supports the bill and offered three specific recommendations: (1) define “rate-effective period” to cover all years of an MRP to prevent arbitrary increases; (2) require that any adjustments to “known and measurable changes” be tied to an objective external index (e.g., inflation); and (3) require utilities to disclose all informational inputs underlying cost-benefit analyses. She stated that electricity bills rose 93% from 2021 to 2026, and 20,000 more households are behind on bills compared to 2020. OAG also supported the BSA subtitle on third-party suppliers, citing deceptive practices and a consumer alert already issued. - OAG noted that Pepco’s current MRP overemphasized capital investment with insufficient guardrails, leading to a nearly $100 million increase over historical averages. Key Outcomes - No votes were taken; the hearing was informational and will inform potential amendments to Bill 26-596 and other legislative proposals. - DOEE and the City Administrator will provide a written list of technical amendments to the bill after the hearing. - The executive branch indicated it plans to introduce a comprehensive legislative package in the future, possibly in multiple bills, after summer discussions. - The BSA subtitle on third-party energy suppliers is set for a council vote on Tuesday, July 7. Several panelists supported it but noted potential implementation challenges. - The written record remains open until July 13, 2026, and may include additional testimony from interested parties. - The committee’s next scheduled meeting is July 8 for a markup of other legislation.

On July 2, 2026, at 12:23 PM, Chair Phil Mendelson convened a public hearing of the Committee as a Whole in Room 412 of the John A. Wilson Building. The hearing considered four bills related to medical cannabis: Bill 26-259 (Medical Cannabis Retailer Craft Preparation Endorsement Act of 2025), Bill 26-346 (Medical Cannabis Conditional Licensure Extension Amendment Act of 2025), Bill 26-522 (Medical Cannabis Process Improvement Amendment Act of 2025), and Bill 26-654 (Medical Cannabis Beverage Product Amendment Act of 2026). The record will remain open until 5:00 PM on July 16, 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - Grace Hyde (Phytocultivation) supported the beverage bill but urged expanding the definition of THC to include all isomers and THCA to avoid loopholes. She opposed the process improvement bill’s retroactive effect and corrected a statistic: the number of registered DC patients is about 25,000 (one in 22 adults), not 125,000. - Caroline Crandall (Green Theory) supported the beverage bill, opposed conditional licensure extension citing market oversaturation, and opposed the process improvement bill as written. She requested amendments to increase edible potency limits to match Maryland (40mg/serving, 400mg/package) and to allow point-of-sale patient registration for non-residents. - Justin Cox (Atlas Brew Works) supported the beverage bill as an efficient use of existing brewery capacity. - Mark Nageeb (Pink Fox) opposed the craft preparation endorsement and the beverage bill, arguing they undermine existing manufacturers. He urged adding payment protections similar to alcohol laws. - Martha Fitzgerald (Ward 6 resident) urged passage of Bill 26-522 to prohibit dispensaries near daycares and to expand protest rights for residents. She described a personal experience where a dispensary was licensed on her residential block despite a nearby daycare, and a protest was rejected on procedural grounds. - James Kahn (Tacoma Wellness, Cookies DC) supported the craft preparation bill but urged removing restrictive operational limits and allowing solventless extraction and pre-roll preparation. He supported the beverage bill and emphasized protecting the regulated market. - Karen Hughes (ANC 6B09) supported Bill 26-522, urging inclusion of child development facilities in the 300-foot buffer and granting ANCs standing on internet retailer licenses. She also supported adding "peace, order, and quiet" as a protest ground. - Will Jones (Smart Approaches to Marijuana) opposed the bills, arguing that DC’s medical label is misleading due to self-certification. He cited statistics: 4.7-fold increase in hyperemesis syndrome, 22-30% cannabis use disorder, 4.5 times higher risk of type 2 diabetes, 50% increased heart attack risk for users under 50, and doubled rates of cannabis-induced psychosis in commercialized states. He also noted 65+ dispensaries in DC—four times the number of McDonald’s. - Caroline Phillips (District Cannabis) rebutted claims by Smart Approaches to Marijuana, stating that dispensary signage is strictly limited, that pharmacy access is broader (145 pharmacy locations), and that the statistics on fatalities and use disorder are misleading without context. - Nora Green (Ward 7 resident, prevention specialist) opposed Bills 26-259 and 26-654, urging delay for stronger public health protections and youth prevention measures. She noted the U.S. Surgeon General’s 2025 report linking alcohol to cancer and warned against combining cannabis and alcohol marketing. - Rev. Karen Curry (Ward 7 resident) expressed concern about youth impacts, citing toxicology reports showing cannabis as the most prominent drug in traffic fatality victims, and the risk of cannabis-induced psychosis and accidental pediatric poisoning. She urged the council to prioritize health over revenue. - Risa Horrow (DC Beverage Alcohol Wholesalers) raised concerns about Bill 26-654’s interaction with a separate hospitality bill (B26-648), warning against vertical integration and market dominance by alcohol manufacturers. - Alison Lipowitz (Regulated Cannabis Association) supported the beverage bill (with a THC definition amendment), opposed the process improvement bill and conditional license extensions, and supported the craft preparation bill with clear food safety standards. - Brandon Duff (District Canacopia) supported all four bills with recommendations for equitable opportunities across license classes and for codifying cannabinoid definitions. - Andre Murphy (lifelong DC resident) opposed the bills, sharing personal experience of addiction and urging more educational and trade programs for youth instead of cannabis dispensaries. - Dr. Siva Kalia Murthy (Children’s National Hospital) testified against Bills 26-259 and 26-654, citing data on pediatric cannabis exposures (1,300% increase in poison center calls) and recommending child-resistant packaging, opaque labeling, and potency caps (5mg/serving, 50mg/package per American College of Medical Toxicology). Supported Bill 26-522. - Dr. Alicia Rowland (Children’s National Hospital, pediatric emergency physician) shared a case of an 18-month-old who required ventilation after ingesting a cannabis edible. She reported 15 unintentional ingestions, 300 adolescent ED visits, and 50 hyperemesis cases in the past 12 months at Children’s. Supported Bill 26-522, opposed Bills 26-259 and 26-654. - Dr. Aishwarya Thakur (Children’s National Hospital, adolescent addiction physician) noted that DC exceeds national averages for youth cannabis use (13% among 12-17 vs. 11% nationally; 49% among 18-25 vs. 37% nationally). She reported seeing two new cannabis use disorder patients per week and warned that expanded product availability normalizes use. Discussion Items - Councilmember Charles Allen introduced Bill 26-522, explaining its goals: adding child development facilities to the sensitive site buffer and expanding protest rights. He emphasized that the intent is not to allow residents to ban cannabis but to provide predictable community input. - Chair Mendelson questioned witnesses about the impact of daycare buffers on site availability and the distinction between illegal and licensed establishments. He noted that dispensaries are largely anonymous (no signage beyond name, no product visibility) and that ABCA receives very few complaints about licensed dispensaries (loitering, odor) compared to alcohol establishments. - Councilmember Christina Henderson asked Director Moussali about the feasibility of implementing a daycare buffer given GIS data gaps, and about expanding protest grounds. Director Moussali stated that the alcohol law does not have an absolute prohibition on daycare proximity, only a protest ground, and that a blanket buffer would significantly narrow compliant locations and be difficult to enforce. - Director Fred Moussali (ABCA) testified in support of Bills 26-259, 26-346, and 26-654, and supported parts of Bill 26-522 (protest expansions) but opposed the daycare buffer as written and the retroactive application. He requested permanent codification of temporary enforcement measures, extension of the 400-foot school buffer (expiring July 24, 2026), and authority to regulate non-cannabis product sales at dispensaries. He reported that 113 unlicensed stores have been closed, and the remaining challenge is unlicensed delivery services. Key Outcomes - No votes were taken; the hearing was for testimony. The record will close on July 16, 2026. - Director Moussali committed to providing the committee with legislative language on payment protections, enforcement measures, and non-cannabis product sales. - ABCA recommended amending Bill 26-346 to change the conditional license extension from two to three years (consistent with existing temporary law) and to allow a zoning certificate in lieu of a certificate of occupancy for conversion to permanent license. - ABCA recommended amending Bill 26-654 to allow brew pubs, wine pubs, and distillery pubs to partner with cannabis manufacturers (not just class A/B manufacturers). - ABCA opposed the retroactive child development facility buffer in Bill 26-522 and suggested alternative language to expand protest grounds to include proximity to child-serving facilities as a factor, not an absolute bar. - Several industry witnesses asked for amendments: expand THC definition to include all isomers (to prevent farm bill loopholes), increase edible potency limits to match Maryland, provide payment protections, and avoid retroactive application of new site restrictions.

On Wednesday, July 1, 2026, the Committee on Transportation and the Environment and the Subcommittee on Small and Local Business Development held a joint public oversight roundtable in Room 412 of the John A. Wilson Building (also via Zoom) from 10:09 a.m. to 12:58 p.m. Chair Charles Allen (Ward 6) and Co-Chair Wendell Felder (Ward 7) led the discussion, joined by Councilmembers Christina Henderson and Anita Bonds. The topic was transit planning for the RFK campus redevelopment, which includes a 65,000-seat stadium, 5,000–6,000 new homes, hotels, and commercial space. The hearing focused on coordination among the District, WMATA, the Washington Commanders, and other agencies to ensure a transit-first campus. Key items included the proposed $300 million expansion of Stadium‐Armory Metro Station, the planned “Gold Line” bus rapid transit, parking garages, and neighborhood protections. Discussion Items - Stadium‐Armory Metro Station Upgrades – WMATA General Manager Randy Clark presented two upgrade options (85% and 100% capacity) to handle up to 38,000 event attendees per hour. The preferred concept involves a new mezzanine and expanded north entrance. A draft Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between WMATA and the District is expected to be presented to the WMATA board on July 23, 2026. The goal is to have all improvements operational by August 2030. Clark stressed that construction will require periodic outages and must be scheduled around major regional events. - Gold Line Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) – The Gold Line would provide dedicated center‑running BRT from Union Station east along H Street and Benning Road to the RFK campus, with a long‑term vision to extend west to Rosslyn. Phase 1 (Union Station to RFK) targets 2030 completion, subject to funding. Phase 1b (RFK to Benning Road Metro) is expected by 2032 and will be integrated with the Benning Road corridor reconstruction. The District allocated $5.2 million in FY27 for design and engineering. DDOT Director Sharon Kirschbaum confirmed the BRT will not reduce sidewalk widths but may reduce on‑street parking at station stops. - Parking and Garages – The Commanders (Kirti Meta) confirmed a total of 8,200 parking spaces, with about 6,000 in structured garages (G1, G2) and the remainder in surface lots on undeveloped parcels. The height of G1 was shown as eight stories in the Office of Planning master plan released June 30. The Commanders have paused construction of a third garage pending ridership demand. Tailgating spaces are included but not fully defined. - Neighborhood Protections – Councilmember Felder raised concerns about spillover parking, cut‑through traffic, and pedestrian safety in adjacent neighborhoods (Kingman Park, Hill East, Parkside, River Terrace). DDOT will develop a Traffic Operations and Parking Plan (TOPP) with community input, using performance parking zones, residential parking permit subzones, and enhanced enforcement. The Commanders committed to exploring incentives (e.g., ticket discounts) for non‑drivers. - Connectivity and Other Infrastructure – DDOT is advancing the Benning Road Bridge replacement (Willie J. Hardy Bridge) and a pedestrian bridge over CSX tracks from East Capitol Street to RFK (target 2032). The Anacostia River Trail and water transportation options are under consideration. Bike valet will be provided at the stadium, likely in a structured garage. - Project Management & Coordination – RFK Project Executive Ryan Hanlan arrived after being initially absent (a move criticized by chairs). He affirmed that ongoing weekly meetings among WMATA, DDOT, the Commanders, the Office of Planning, and other agencies are driving an iterative, integrated planning process. The $600 million Transportation Improvement Fund (created as part of the 2025 financing agreement) will be used to support capital and operating costs for transit investments. Key Outcomes - July 23, 2026 WMATA Board Vote – The District and WMATA aim to have a finalized MOA covering Stadium‑Armory station upgrades and Gold Line design on the board’s agenda. - Station Upgrade Timeline – Stadium‑Armory improvements must be fully operational by August 2030 (first Commanders home season). - Gold Line Phasing – Union Station – RFK segment targeted for 2030 (contingent on construction funding); RFK – Benning Road segment by 2032. No construction funding is yet appropriated for Phase 1b. - No New Infill Metro Station – WMATA formally ruled out a new station closer to the stadium, citing cost (≥ $1 billion), engineering complexity, and limited capacity benefit. - Parking Ceiling – The Commanders will not exceed 8,200 spaces; a third garage is indefinitely deferred, pending actual transit mode share. - Community Engagement – WMATA will hold a virtual public meeting in late July on station design. DDOT will launch a public process for the TOPP and parking policies. The Office of Planning’s master plan is open for 45‑day public comment (closing mid‑August). - Next Meeting – The Committee on Transportation and the Environment will reconvene on July 2, 2026, for a hearing on utility rates.

This was the 33rd legislative meeting of Council Period 26, held on June 30, 2026, at 1:29 PM in Room 500 of the John A. Wilson Building. Chair Phil Mendelson presided. The council approved a consent agenda (with one removal), debated a new glazier licensing bill, amended an accountancy practice bill, advanced an education code adjustments bill, and passed a major ticket resale reform after significant debate and amendment. Several emergency and temporary measures were also adopted. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda was adopted unanimously after one change: Bill 26-422 (Glazier Licensing Standards and Certification Act of 2026) was removed from the consent agenda to allow discussion. Discussion Items - Bill 26-422 – Glazier Licensing Standards and Certification Act of 2026 (First Reading) - Councilmember Henderson expressed concerns about over-regulation, noting that of approximately 240 glaziers in the region, only 60 are currently certified. She worried that licensing could make DC an outlier compared to Maryland and Virginia and urged grandfathering provisions and reasonable fees. - Councilmember Lewis George, the bill’s author, argued that glaziers do highly skilled safety-critical work, citing an incident where a 15-foot acrylic panel fell from the 21st floor in Rockville. He said the bill allows the Board of Industrial Trades to consider experience for grandfathering. - Councilmember Nadeau noted the bill is not yet funded (subject to appropriation) and that the board has flexibility for existing practitioners. - Councilmember Bonds supported the bill on safety grounds. - Outcome: Passed unanimously (first reading); Councilmember Trayon White recorded as present. - Bill 26-494 – Accountancy Practice Amendment Act of 2025 (First Reading) - Councilmember Nadeau moved an amendment in the nature of a substitute that adds DLCP administrative updates (e.g., entertainment establishment objection process through ANCs, four-year license renewals, expired license fines) and a towing company impound lot fix. - No further debate; amendment and bill passed unanimously. - Bill 26-430 – Education Code Adjustments Amendment Act of 2026 (Final Reading) - Councilmember Nadeau described seven new sections in the amendment, including: aligning lead exposure prevention reporting (annual to biennial), repealing the defunct Child Care Bureau, updating Green Ribbon Schools language (due to federal program pause), granting ASI administrative subpoena power for enrollment/residency investigations, compelling LEAs to submit course data, and repealing a requirement for ASI to mandate COVID-19 vaccination for child care staff. - Councilmember Parker supported but urged more comprehensive data authority for ASI in the future. - Amendment and final passage both unanimous. - Bill 26-224 – Restricting Egregious Scalping Against Live Entertainment (RESALE) Amendment Act of 2026 (First Reading) - Councilmember Allen introduced a substitute amendment (co-sponsored with Henderson) that restored a 10% cap on ticket resale prices (over original price) and permitted secondary platforms to charge up to an additional 10% fee, making a cumulative cap of 20%. It also prohibited surveillance-based price discrimination (different prices based on mined personal data) and narrowed mayoral rulemaking to platform fees only, not venue fees. The price cap can be reviewed by the mayor after one year. - Councilmember Henderson emphasized protections for fans and venues, noting fake tickets and speculative sales (e.g., World Cup). - Councilmember Nadeau expressed reservations about an immediate cap without addressing primary market dynamic pricing but supported the amendment as a compromise. She noted the bill originally gave the mayor broad rulemaking power on both primary and secondary markets, but this amendment focuses on secondary. - Councilmember Trayon White asked for clarity: the price cap applies to all resales, but registration with DLCP (for those selling 50 tickets/year) is only for businesses. DLCP registration includes a $25,000 surety bond. - Councilmember Pinto questioned whether the amendment could inadvertently allow mayoral regulation of primary market fees; Allen clarified it targets only platform fees (not venue fees). - Councilmember Parker raised concerns that dynamic pricing (e.g., Ticketmaster) is not addressed; Allen responded that the bill is focused on secondary market and that surveillance pricing (the most egregious form of dynamic pricing) is prohibited. Parker also asked about enforcement; Nadeau said DLCP will get new staff (funded in the budget) and platforms must share data, but enforcement will require ongoing oversight. - Councilmember Fruman urged caution on dynamic pricing rulemaking, wanting testimony from venues and artists first. - Outcome: The amendment passed unanimously; the bill as amended passed unanimously on first reading. Second reading is scheduled for July 14. Key Outcomes - Bill 26-422 (Glazier Licensing): Approved first reading unanimously. - Bill 26-494 (Accountancy Practice): Approved as amended unanimously. - Bill 26-430 (Education Code Adjustments): Approved final reading unanimously. - Bill 26-224 (Ticket Resale Cap): Approved first reading with the substitute amendment restoring a 10% resale cap (plus up to 10% platform fee) and banning surveillance-based pricing. Second reading set for July 14. - Emergency & Temporary Measures: - PR 26-753 / Bill 26-715 (PSC holdover extension from 180 to 270 days): Passed unanimously. - PR 26-751 / Bill 26-712 (Comprehensive Policing and Justice Reform technical emergency, 6th successive emergency): Passed unanimously despite criticism from Councilmembers Henderson and Fruman about reliance on emergencies. - PR 26-750 / Bill 26-710 (Entertainment establishment employee safety extension – cashless exemption for late-night establishments): Passed (Councilmember Bonds recorded no; she noted a permanent measure is pending). - Temporary bills (Bill 26-716, 26-713, 26-711): Passed in block unanimously. - The next legislative meeting is July 7 (budget support act, starting at 10 AM) and an additional meeting on July 14 (starting at noon).

The Committee of the Whole of the Council of the District of Columbia held an additional meeting on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, at 12:33 PM in Room 500 of the John A. Wilson Building. Chairman Phil Mendelson presided. The meeting included a markup of one appointment resolution and consideration of numerous measures reported from other committees, with most placed on the consent or non-consent agenda for the subsequent legislative meeting. Consent Calendar - PR 26-708 (Uniform Law Commission): Initially approved, then reconsidered at Councilmember Allen's request, and approved again unanimously. Appoints Janine D. Jackson to the Uniform Law Commission for a term ending July 1, 2027. - PR 26-687, 688, 689, 690 (Board of Pharmacy): Confirmation of Dr. Allison Hill, Dr. Jamila Jordan, Dr. Jewel Reddick, and Dr. Stephanie Johnikin as Board of Pharmacy members. Presented by Councilmember Henderson. Placed on consent. - PR 26-691 (Health Benefit Exchange Authority): Confirmation of John Auerbach to the Executive Board. Presented by Councilmember Henderson. Placed on consent. - PR 26-661 through 26-716 (Commission on Human Rights): Nine resolutions confirming commissioners: Isabel Vladuew, Carmen Moreno Sans, Adam Mayer, Jordan White, Joel Caston, Rev. Thomas Bowen, Pratima Narayan, Joshua Blecker-Cohn, and Dr. Krista Bywater. Presented by Councilmember Nadeau. Placed on consent. - PR 26-598 (Green Finance Authority): Confirmation of Jennifer Wade to the board. Presented by Councilmember Allen. Placed on consent. Discussion Items - Bill 26-224 – Restricting egregious scalping against live entertainment amendment act (RESALE Act): Councilmember Nadeau presented the bill, which includes new licensing and transparency requirements for ticket resellers, a surety bond increase to $25,000, and grants the mayor regulatory authority over both primary and secondary ticket markets, including potential price caps and fee limits. Councilmember Parker raised questions about the breadth of mayor's authority and enforcement by DLCP. Nadeau noted an amendment is being prepared with Councilmembers Allen and Henderson to clarify the authority and focus on fees and surveillance pricing. The bill was placed on the non-consent agenda with a fiscal impact of $150,000 in FY26 and $3.1 million over the plan. - Bill 26-494 – Accountancy Practice Amendment Act of 2026: Councilmember Nadeau presented updates to CPA licensure to align with the Uniform Accountancy Act, adding a third pathway and updating reciprocity rules to address workforce shortages. She plans to offer a substitute amendment. Placed on non-consent. No fiscal impact. - Bill 26-422 – Glazier Licensing Standards and Certification Act of 2026: Presented by Councilmember Nadeau and co-introduced by Councilmember Lewis George. Establishes licensing for glaziers and glazing contractors, adds two glazier representatives to the Board of Industrial Trades, and provides flexibility for comparable experience. Councilmember Henderson questioned why licensure was chosen over registration; Nadeau cited safety and industry standards. Councilmember Lewis George emphasized safety and energy efficiency. Councilmember Pinto asked about impacts on CBE programs – none. Placed on non-consent after Henderson's request. Fiscal impact: $300,000 in FY27 and $534,000 across the plan. Key Outcomes - All consent items were approved and placed on the consent agenda for the July 2026 legislative meeting. - Non-consent items (RESALE Act, Accountancy Act, Glazier Licensing) were placed on the non-consent agenda and will be considered with amendments during the legislative meeting. - The meeting adjourned at 1:16 PM, with a legislative meeting to follow and a subsequent meeting scheduled for July 14, 2026. No public comments or testimony were presented during this meeting.

On June 29, 2026, the Committee on the Judiciary and Public Safety, chaired by Councilmember Brooke Pinto, held a markup session to consider five confirmation resolutions for nominees to the Police Complaints Board (PCB). The meeting began at 2:10 PM according to the transcript (note: user-provided timestamp is 7:15 PM, but the date is as given). All five nominees were moved en bloc and confirmed unanimously without debate. Consent Calendar - PR 26-642: Glenn Marcus Confirmation Resolution – Nominates Glenn Marcus (Ward 3) for a term ending January 12, 2029. Marcus is a semi-retired documentary filmmaker, press freedom advocate, and community activist with experience in prison education and EEO. - PR 26-643: Dr. Andrea Hadley Confirmation Resolution – Nominates Dr. Andrea Hadley (Ward 6) for a term ending January 12, 2027. Hadley is an associate professor at Georgetown University specializing in police accountability and civilian oversight. - PR 26-644: Bobby Strang Confirmation Resolution – Renominates Bobby Strang (Ward 7) for a term ending January 12, 2029. Strang is a current PCB member and claims examiner at the Department of Employment Services. - PR 26-645: Edward Sanders Confirmation Resolution – Nominates Edward Sanders (Board 1) for a term ending January 12, 2028. Sanders is a relationship manager at the United Negro College Fund and former State Department analyst. - PR 26-695: Peter Durkin Confirmation Resolution – Nominates Peter Durkin (Ward 2) for a term ending January 12, 2028. Durkin is a product manager with experience in legislative technology and community advocacy. Chairwoman Pinto noted that the dais prints of PR 26-645 and PR 26-695 contained a technical correction updating the term end year to 2028. The resolutions were moved en bloc with leave for staff to make technical, editorial, or conforming changes. Key Outcomes - All five confirmation resolutions (PR26-642, PR26-643, PR26-644, PR26-645, PR26-695) passed unanimously by voice vote. - The nominees will fill positions on the Police Complaints Board, which oversees the Office of Police Complaints and reviews misconduct complaints. - The meeting adjourned at 2:21 PM.

Chairman Mendelssohn held a press conference to preview the upcoming regular legislative meeting on June 30, 2026, and an additional meeting on July 14, 2026, before the council's recess. He addressed questions on ticket scalping legislation, emergency measures, the budget and reserves, personal seat licenses for the Commanders stadium, interim appointments, and federal interference in local politics. Upcoming Legislative Meeting Agenda - Committee of the Whole (June 30): Will mark up one measure to appoint a member to the Uniform Law Commission. - Confirmations: Four appointments to the Board of Pharmacy (from the Committee on Health) and nine appointments to the Commission on Human Rights (from the Committee on Public Works and Operations) are scheduled for a vote. - Resale Act (Restructuring and Gregio Scalping Against Live Entertainment Amendment Act of 2026): This bill aims to address ticket scalping and high resale prices. Chairman Mendelssohn stated he has not decided on whether to support a price cap, citing arguments that a cap could drive sales to unregulated markets. He said an amendment on the cap may not be offered at first reading but would likely come up at second reading. - Emergency Legislation: - Comprehensive Policing and Justice Reform Technical Emergency: A renewal of previously approved legislation. - Entertainment Establishment Employee Safety Extension: Creates an exception to the cash requirement for certain late-night restaurants with alcohol licenses. - Public Service Commission (PSC) Holdover Period Extension: Extends terms for two PSC members beyond June 30 to allow the incoming mayor to decide on appointments. - Contracts: Two school food service contracts (with Error Mark and Sedexo Magic) plus other non-controversial contracts; no details provided on a third vendor. Discussion on Key Issues - Ticket Resale Act (continued): Chairman acknowledged arguments for and against a price cap but remained undecided. He expects the issue to be revisited at second reading. - Personal Seat Licenses (PSLs) for the Commanders Stadium: - Reporters (Mr. Seagraves, Mr. Ostermule) expressed that the PSLs represent a $975 million giveaway to the team, costing taxpayers and fans (average $15,000 per seat). - Chairman Mendelssohn pushed back: He argued that PSLs are a common financing mechanism for NFL stadiums, not a government giveaway. He noted the council improved the original deal by roughly $800 million for taxpayers compared to the mayor's proposal. He stated he was aware of per-seat estimates ($15,000–$25,000) but not the total figure, and that the government's only cost is forgone sales tax on the PSLs. He did not commit to pursuing additional fan protections or price controls. - Budget and Reserves: - Chairman defended the council's decision to draw $150 million from the fiscal stabilization reserve. He said reserves will remain at about 62 days of operating costs (above the GFOA's 60-day gold standard) and that Moody's has indicated no concern as long as the fund balance exceeds 15% of revenues. He criticized the CFO for being overly conservative, underestimating revenues by $800 million in FY25, overbudgeting debt service, and failing to enforce agency spending limits—resulting in year-end reprogramming. - Interim Appointments: - A reporter asked about MPD Chief Jeffrey Carroll serving beyond the legal six-month interim period and other long-term interims (DPW, Chief Medical Examiner). Chairman acknowledged the issue but said he had "not a good answer" and noted the council has not recently pressured the Mayor. He suggested oversight committee chairs bear responsibility. - President Trump's Comments on Mayoral Candidate: - Chairman Mendelssohn said he does not appreciate the President's remarks, calling them inappropriate interference in local affairs. He advised the President to have a direct conversation instead of issuing blanket criticism. He stated the council must take presidential threats seriously. Fiscal Matters and Budget - Chairman reiterated that the council has adopted the FY2026 budget. The Budget Support Act (BSA) second reading is scheduled for July 7, with documents circulating on June 30 (notice) and July 1 (amendment in nature of a substitute). He listed key expenditures: $100 million for workforce investment, $106 million for pay equity and child care subsidy. He stressed that the bond rating agencies and GFOA support the reserve level, and the city has 100% funded pension and OPEB liabilities, unique nationwide. Key Outcomes and Next Steps - The legislative meeting on June 30 will proceed with the items above. No votes on the Personal Seat License agreement are scheduled for tomorrow. - The council will act on confirmations and emergency measures. - Chairman left open the possibility of further amendments to the Resale Act at second reading. - The council stands ready to assist the CFO with cash flow legislation if needed. - Next key date: July 7 for BSA second reading; July 14 for additional legislative meeting before recess.

Chairperson Charles Allen (Ward 6) opened the hearing on Bill 26-596, the Utility Rates and Rate Making Amendment Act of 2026, at 9:45 a.m. on Monday, June 29, 2026. The hearing focused on public witnesses; government witnesses will testify on Thursday, July 2, 2026 at 1 p.m. Allen noted that utility costs have surged nearly 70% from 2017 to 2025, with one in six households nationwide behind on energy bills and average overdue balances near $800. The bill would require the Public Service Commission (PSC) to approve multi-year rate plans only if based on historic test years and without reconciliation, specify refunds for excess return on equity, and require gas infrastructure projects to demonstrate customer benefit and analysis of alternatives. Public Comments & Testimony - Claire Mills (CCAN Action Fund): Recommended the council provide explicit direction and deadlines to the PSC, require regular audits of utility rate bases, and prohibit frivolous costs like lobbying. She expressed concern that the bill's cost-benefit analysis requirement is insufficient without a comprehensive framework. - Macy Brigham Hill (CCAN): Emphasized that clean energy is affordable energy, urging fast-tracking local solar and battery storage to reduce reliance on PJM generation costs. She noted average electricity bills rose nearly 67% between March 2021 and March 2026. - Laura Levinson (Sierra Club DC): Opposed the bill as insufficient, arguing it does not rein in utility spending or meet climate commitments. She called for limiting gas infrastructure projects to leak detection and repair, and criticized the mayor for diverting $80 million from the Sustainable Energy Trust Fund. - Anne DeBuys (public witness): Urged the committee to table the bill, stating the cost-benefit analysis language is premature because the PSC has not yet developed a holistic narrative framework for evaluating distributed energy resources. - Bethany Costello (WePower DC): Supported the bill but recommended revisions to prevent utilities from subverting its intent. She advocated for public power, transparency measures (e.g., monthly profit reports, audits), and a cooling-off period for PSC staff. - Sailor Goodson Bell (Solar United Neighbors): Urged maintaining and expanding local solar incentives, noting that 64% of low-income families are energy burdened and that solar has saved over $80 million for 11,000 families through Solar for All. - Robin Dutta (Chesapeake Solar and Storage Association): Supported the bill, emphasizing the need to maximize local generation and load flexibility. He noted that PJM does not count front-of-meter solar as load modifiers, artificially increasing capacity costs. - Nicole Rentz (New Columbia Solar): Recommended adopting the Grid Act, enabling energy storage and virtual power plants, and expanding Solar for All. She stated solar now meets about 5% of DC's electricity demand, avoiding roughly $90 million in costs this year. - Jennifer Spinocsi (Clean Choice Energy): Opposed subtitle E of the Budget Support Act (BSA), arguing price caps would eliminate customer choice, as happened in Maryland. She supported targeted consumer protections instead. - Mason Emnett (Constellation Energy): Opposed subtitle E, stating it would reduce innovation and drive suppliers out of the market. He urged the council to remove it and consider balanced consumer protections. - Kimberly Manning (TBA): Urged caution on the bill, warning that restrictions on multi-year rate plans could harm local contractors and CBEs that rely on predictable project pipelines from utilities like Pepco. - Janique Williams (WGL Energy): Opposed subtitle E, calling it market reform rather than consumer protection. She objected to the 110% price cap, noting that suppliers procure energy in real time versus utilities' staggered approach. - Rob Lemming (Pepco): Defended multi-year rate plans as providing predictability and transparency. He argued that most bill increases come from supply costs outside Pepco's control, and that the bill's historic cost requirements could underfund critical investments. - Amber Perry (Pepco): Highlighted that distribution costs account for only about 25% of a customer's bill, while supply costs (60%) are driven by PJM capacity prices that have increased from $29 to over $330 per megawatt-day. She supported expanding energy efficiency and virtual power plants. - Nikia Crossley (Washington Gas): Opposed the bill's requirement for positive net benefits on safety investments, arguing that risk reduction from replacing aging cast iron pipes is difficult to quantify. She noted the PSC already has authority to balance affordability and safety. - Cynthia Quarterman (former PHMSA administrator): Emphasized the safety imperative of replacing vintage cast iron and bare steel pipes, noting DC has the largest percentage of pre-1940 cast iron pipe (31%) of any state. She urged the committee not to slow replacement efforts. - Pat Garofalo (American Economic Liberties Project): Recommended lowering authorized return on equity (Pepco requested 10.5%) and prohibiting ratepayer-funded lobbying. He cited research that excessive returns cost ratepayers $50 billion annually nationwide. - Keith Fox (Fox STEM): Supported multi-year rate plans, stating they provide the predictability needed for local contractors to plan and invest. - Christy Wallaca (NUCA DC): Opposed additional regulatory hurdles, arguing they would delay critical infrastructure projects and harm local contractors. - Rosalind Stiles (NAMC DC): Supported Pepco's multi-year plans, noting they have created jobs for minority contractors and that 43% of Pepco's spending on Capital Grid went to small and local businesses. - Kevin Carey and Fran Francis (AOBA): Supported the bill and urged the council to sunset multi-year rate plans, return to historic test year rate making, and require cost-benefit analysis for major investments. They also asked the council to urge the PSC to roll back rates to pre-January 2025 levels following a court remand. - Frank Khaliva (RESA): Opposed subtitle E, stating price caps would eliminate residential energy choice, as occurred in Maryland where all 274 suppliers ceased residential operations. He offered alternative consumer protection proposals. - Adrian Mouton Henderson (Constellation Energy): Opposed subtitle E, arguing it would reduce competition and eliminate clean energy choices. She urged a transparent legislative process. - Ann Walters (public witness): Opposed the bill, stating it would delay critical grid upgrades like the Capital Grid project in Ward 4. She supported expanding targeted assistance programs. - Daniel Greenberg (public witness): Raised concerns about utilities discriminating against customers who pay by credit card for auto-pay, and charging fees that vary by jurisdiction. - Jerry Willford (IBEW Local 1900): Opposed the bill, warning it would delay infrastructure projects and harm union jobs. He noted Pepco's partnership with DC Infrastructure Academy has employed over 110 graduates since 2018. - Dusty Harbaugh (CW & Sons Infrastructure): Opposed the bill, stating multi-year rate plans provide the financial stability needed for long-term projects like the Capital Grid. He warned that delays could threaten jobs and grid reliability. - Benjamin Morad (WePower DC): Supported the bill and recommended funding dedicated staff for public officials to intervene in PSC proceedings, citing examples from other states where commissioners faced political pressure. - Phil Campbell (solar owner): Supported maintaining solar incentives, noting his Solar for All system saves him over $100 per month and provides SREC income. - Wilma Mason (Salvation Army): Highlighted the Pepco Customer Service Fund, which distributed $3.25 million to over 9,000 households in the past year. She urged continued investment in affordability programs. - Frank Coles (public witness): Raised issues with Pepco disconnecting his solar monitoring system and charging fees to access usage data, making it difficult to track savings. - Delaney Brown (Power for Tomorrow): Discussed that multi-year rate plans have limited impact on supply costs driven by PJM, which saw capacity prices rise over 800%. She noted that customers in deregulated states like DC pay significantly more than those in regulated states. Discussion Items - The committee heard extensive debate on the merits of multi-year rate plans, with supporters (Pepco, contractors, unions) arguing they provide predictability and transparency, while opponents (AOBA, some advocates) argued they shift risk to ratepayers and enable excessive spending. - Subtitle E of the BSA was a major topic: suppliers and trade associations opposed price caps, while consumer advocates supported protections against predatory practices. Several witnesses urged the council to remove subtitle E and consider it through standalone legislation. - The role of PJM in driving supply costs was repeatedly highlighted, with many witnesses calling for more local solar and storage to reduce reliance on the regional grid. - Safety of aging gas infrastructure was discussed, with Washington Gas and Cynthia Quarterman emphasizing the need for proactive replacement of cast iron pipes, while some advocates questioned the cost-effectiveness of continued gas investments given climate goals. - Several witnesses raised concerns about the PSC's working group process and the need for stronger oversight and transparency. Key Outcomes - No votes were taken; the hearing was solely for public witness testimony. - The record will remain open until July 16, 2026, for written testimony via the council's hearing management system. - The committee will reconvene on Thursday, July 2, 2026 at 1 p.m. to hear government witness testimony on Bill 26-596 and related policy solutions.

On Thursday, June 25, 2026, at 12:01 p.m., the Committee on Human Services, chaired by Councilmember Matt Freuman (Ward 3), held an additional meeting in Room 123 of the John A. Wilson Building and via Zoom. A quorum was present with Councilmembers Christina Henderson (At-Large) and Wendell Felder (Ward 7). The sole agenda item was PR 26-0736, the Hill East Phase 2 Bundle 2 Disposition Term Sheet Amendment Approval Resolution of 2026, which authorized amendments to the term sheet for the development of approximately 6.3 acres (parcels C, E, H, and streets) at 1900 Massachusetts Avenue SE (formerly Reservation 13). Discussion Items - Overview: The resolution approved three amendments to the September 20, 2022 term sheet between the District (through DMPED) and developer R13 Community Partners LLC. The first amendment shifts responsibility for constructing the public park on Parcel E from the developer to the District, with the park to be leased to the developer for up to 25 years (reduced from a 99-year ground lease) and the developer remaining responsible for maintenance during the lease period. Other amendments were not detailed in the transcript. - Councilmember Henderson’s Questions: Councilmember Henderson inquired about the developer’s readiness to proceed, noting that many projects are stalled. Chair Freuman reported that the developer is ready to begin delivering buildings and that this resolution is the final action needed for these parcels. Councilmember Henderson also asked about the cost of constructing the park; the cost is included in the capital budget, but the specific amount was not provided during the meeting (staff indicated they would follow up). - Councilmember Felder’s Questions: Councilmember Felder expressed excitement about the project and its complement to RFK Stadium area redevelopment. He asked why the park lease is 25 years while other parcels have 99-year leases. Chair Freuman speculated that the shorter lease reflects the park’s eventual return to fully public control, whereas longer leases are needed to justify building investments. - Chair’s Comments: Chair Freuman noted that the developer cited the upcoming RFK Stadium redevelopment (by 2030) as a key factor in proceeding, as synergies with that project make the Hill East investment attractive despite current capital challenges. Key Outcomes - Vote: Chair Freuman moved to approve the committee print and report for PR 26-0736, with leave for staff to make technical and conforming changes. The motion passed unanimously (all ayes). The resolution now proceeds to the full Council. - Next Steps: The District will proceed with constructing the public park and executing the amended term sheet. No further committee action on these parcels is anticipated.