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Bill

B 26-0296

Modification Nos. M0008, M0009, and M0010 to Contract No. CW86331 with Cellco Partnership dba Verizon Wireless Approval and Payment Authorization Emergency Act of 2025

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

DC authorizes three Verizon Wireless contract modifications with emergency procedures, providing payment authorization without disclosing modification details, costs, or justification for expedited processing.

Act A26-0122 Published in DC Register Vol 72 and Page 008596, Expires on Oct 30, 2025
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Bill Summary · B 26-0296

Legislative bill overview

This emergency act authorizes the District of Columbia to approve three contract modifications (M0008, M0009, and M0010) with Cellco Partnership operating as Verizon Wireless and provides payment authorization for services under Contract No. CW86331. The bill was enacted as emergency legislation, meaning it bypassed standard procedural timelines and took effect immediately upon the Mayor's signature.

Why is this important

Contract modifications with major telecommunications providers can significantly impact DC's communications infrastructure, service delivery, and budget allocation. The emergency classification indicates the city deemed these modifications time-sensitive, though the specific service scope, cost implications, and affected city operations are not detailed in the bill title alone. This sets precedent for how DC manages vendor relationships with essential service providers.

Potential points of contention

  • Lack of transparency: The bill title does not specify what services are being modified, the financial amount involved, or which city departments are affected, making public oversight difficult
  • Emergency designation justification: Using emergency procedures bypasses standard public comment periods and committee deliberation—the rationale for emergency status is unclear from available information
  • Contract modification scope: Three simultaneous modifications suggest either scope creep or inadequate initial contract drafting, raising questions about contract management practices

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

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