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B 26-0436

Fair Initiatives Lend Transparency to Every Resident Amendment Act of 2025

26th Council Period (2025-2026) Introduced by Anita Bonds

The bill ensures D.C. voters receive clear info on initiatives by requiring single subjects, fiscal impact statements, and extended objection periods for transparency.

Committee Mark-up of B26-0436 by the Executive Administration and Labor Committee
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Bill Summary · B 26-0436

Summary of Bill B26-0436: Fair Initiatives Lend Transparency to Every Resident Amendment Act of 2025

Purpose and Intent

The Fair Initiatives Lend Transparency to Every Resident Amendment Act of 2025 aims to enhance the transparency and procedural integrity of the initiative and referendum process in the District of Columbia. By amending the District of Columbia Election Code of 1955, the bill seeks to ensure that voters are well-informed about the implications of proposed measures before they are placed on the ballot.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces several significant changes to the current initiative and referendum process:

  1. Single Subject Requirement:

    • Proposed initiatives must address only one subject at a time, preventing the bundling of unrelated measures. This aims to clarify the voting process for residents.

  2. Fiscal Impact Statements:

    • The Office of the Chief Financial Officer (OCFO) will be required to issue a fiscal impact statement within 15 days of receiving a proposed initiative from the Board of Elections. This statement must be published and included on the petition sheet and ballot.

  3. Extended Advisory Opinion Timelines:

    • The time frame for the Office of the Attorney General and the General Counsel of the Council to provide advisory opinions on proposed measures will be extended from 15 days to 30 days.

  4. Objection Period:

    • The period for both proposers and the public to object to the Board of Elections' determinations will be extended from 10 days to 30 days.

  5. Public Meeting Requirement:

    • The Board of Elections will be required to hold a public meeting to issue its determination on whether to accept or refuse a proposed measure.

  6. Judicial Review:

    • Registered qualified electors will have the right to seek review in the Superior Court of the Board’s determination within 30 days after publication in the District of Columbia Register.

  7. Font Size Specification:

    • A minimum font size of 12 points will be mandated for the summary statement, short title, and fiscal impact summary on ballots and petition sheets.

Who Would Be Affected

  • District Residents: The bill directly impacts voters by ensuring they have access to clear and comprehensive information about initiatives and referendums.
  • Board of Elections: The Board will have new responsibilities and timelines to adhere to, which may affect its operational procedures.
  • Proposers of Initiatives: Individuals or groups proposing initiatives will need to comply with the new requirements regarding subject matter and fiscal disclosures.

Procedural Aspects and Timeline

  • Introduced: October 17, 2025
  • Public Hearing Scheduled: December 5, 2025, at 10:00 AM (Hybrid format)
  • Registration for Testimony: Witnesses must register by December 3, 2025.
  • Record Closure: The record for written statements will close on December 19, 2025.

Conclusion

The Fair Initiatives Lend Transparency to Every Resident Amendment Act of 2025 is designed to improve the initiative process in the District of Columbia by ensuring that voters are adequately informed about the fiscal implications and subject matter of proposed measures. By enhancing transparency and procedural clarity, the bill aims to foster a more informed electorate and a more accountable legislative process.

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

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