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Bill

HR 214

District of Columbia Legislative Home Rule Act

119th Congress Introduced by Eleanor Holmes Norton

Expands D.C.'s local legislative authority by reducing Congress's oversight power over the district's government, granting residents greater self-governance over local affairs.

Sponsor introductory remarks on measure. (CR E3-4)
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Bill Summary · HR 214

Legislative bill overview

HR 214 proposes to expand home rule authority for the District of Columbia by granting its locally elected government greater legislative independence from Congress. The bill addresses the current system where Congress retains significant oversight and veto power over D.C.'s local budget and legislation. This represents an effort to reduce federal control over D.C.'s internal governance.

Why is this important

D.C. residents lack voting representation in Congress while being subject to federal legislative control—a unique arrangement often characterized as taxation without representation. Expanding home rule would allow D.C. to exercise greater self-determination over local affairs comparable to state governments. This directly affects how approximately 700,000 residents govern issues like education, public safety, and local taxation.

Potential points of contention

  • Federal oversight concerns: Opponents may argue that maintaining congressional oversight ensures fiscal responsibility and prevents mismanagement of federal funds invested in the district
  • Constitutional complexity: The district's unique federal status creates legal questions about whether home rule expansion violates the Constitution's federal district provisions
  • Partisan considerations: D.C.'s heavily Democratic electorate makes this politically contentious, with Republicans potentially concerned about reducing federal leverage over a Democratic-controlled jurisdiction

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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