Common-Sense Law Enforcement and Accountability Now in DC Act; CLEAN DC Act
Summary
H.R. 5107, also known as the Common-Sense Law Enforcement and Accountability Now in DC Act or the CLEAN DC Act, aims to repeal the Comprehensive Policing and Justice Reform Amendment Act of 2022 enacted by the District of Columbia Council (D.C. Law 24-345). The bill seeks to restore any provisions of law that were amended or repealed by the 2022 Act. It was introduced in the House of Representatives on September 3, 2025, and referred to the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.
Expected Effects
If enacted, H.R. 5107 would reverse the changes made by the Comprehensive Policing and Justice Reform Amendment Act of 2022 in Washington D.C. This would reinstate the laws and regulations that were in place prior to the amendment. The practical effect depends on the specific provisions of the repealed act and the nature of the restored laws.
Potential Benefits
- Potentially restores law enforcement practices deemed more effective by some.
- Could lead to a perceived increase in public safety by proponents of the repeal.
- May address concerns about specific provisions of the 2022 Act that were seen as detrimental to law enforcement.
- Could align policing practices more closely with federal standards or expectations.
- May provide a clearer legal framework for law enforcement in the District of Columbia.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Reversal of reforms could negatively impact police-community relations.
- May undermine efforts to address systemic issues within the justice system.
- Could disproportionately affect marginalized communities if the repealed act aimed to protect them.
- May lead to increased distrust in law enforcement if reforms were intended to enhance accountability.
- Could stifle innovation in policing practices if the repealed act introduced new approaches.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's constitutional alignment hinges on Congress's authority over the District of Columbia, as outlined in Article I, Section 8, Clause 17 of the U.S. Constitution. This clause grants Congress the power to exercise exclusive legislation in all cases whatsoever over the District. The repeal itself does not inherently violate any specific constitutional rights, but the impact of the restored laws must be considered in relation to individual liberties and due process.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).