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Bill

B 26-0060

Initiative Amendment Act of 2025

26th Council Period (2025-2026) Introduced by Phil Mendelson

B 26-0060 modifies DC's initiative and referendum procedures by adjusting signature requirements, timelines, and validation processes for citizen ballot measures.

Committee Mark-up of B26-0060 by the Executive Administration and Labor Committee - Not Considered
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Bill Summary · B 26-0060

Legislative bill overview

B 26-0060 amends DC's initiative and referendum processes, modifying procedures for how citizens can propose legislation or challenge laws through ballot measures. The bill adjusts signature collection requirements, timeline procedures, and validation processes for citizen-initiated measures in the District of Columbia.

Why is this important

Initiative and referendum mechanisms are fundamental democratic tools that directly affect citizens' ability to participate in lawmaking outside the legislature. Changes to these procedures alter the practical accessibility of direct democracy—making it easier or harder for organized groups to place measures on ballots, which shapes what issues reach voters.

Potential points of contention

  • Signature threshold adjustments: Any changes to required signature counts will be contested by both reform advocates (who want lower barriers to ballot access) and those concerned about frivolous measures clogging ballots
  • Timeline modifications: Alterations to collection periods and filing deadlines affect real-world feasibility for grassroots campaigns versus well-funded organizations
  • Validation procedures: Stricter or looser verification standards for submitted signatures impact both the integrity of the process and ease of qualification

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

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