Bills of Congress July 23, 2025 by U.S. Congress

To subject emergency legislation enacted by the District of Columbia Council to expedited congressional disapproval procedures.

Summary

H.R. 4670 aims to amend the District of Columbia Home Rule Act, specifically targeting emergency legislation enacted by the D.C. Council. The bill seeks to subject such legislation to expedited congressional disapproval procedures. This would grant Congress greater oversight and control over emergency laws passed in the District of Columbia.

Expected Effects

The primary effect of this bill would be to require the D.C. Council to submit emergency legislation to Congress for review under an expedited process. This could potentially slow down the implementation of emergency measures in the District. It also shifts power towards the federal government in overseeing local D.C. laws.

Potential Benefits

Increased congressional oversight of D.C. emergency legislation.
Potential for more thorough review of emergency measures.
Could prevent hasty or ill-considered laws from taking effect.
May ensure greater accountability of the D.C. Council.
Could align D.C. laws more closely with national interests.

Potential Disadvantages

Potential delays in implementing necessary emergency measures in D.C.
Could undermine the autonomy of the D.C. Council.
May lead to political gridlock and hinder effective governance in D.C.
Could disproportionately affect D.C. residents.
May create additional administrative burdens for both the D.C. Council and Congress.

Constitutional Alignment

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

The bill's constitutional alignment hinges on Congress's authority over the District of Columbia, as established 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 proposed legislation appears to fall within this constitutional grant of authority.