Summary of HR 1774

Bill Number: HR 1774

Introduced: March 03, 2025

Status: Introduced in House

Primary Sponsor: Andrew S. Clyde

Purpose and Intent

HR 1774 aims to amend Title 23 of the United States Code to impose financial penalties on the District of Columbia unless specific actions are taken by the Mayor. The bill's primary intent is to remove the phrase "Black Lives Matter" from a designated plaza and other official materials, and to rename the plaza to "Liberty Plaza."

Key Provisions

The bill includes the following significant provisions:

1. Withholding of Funds:

   • The Secretary of Transportation is mandated to withhold 50% of the federal apportionment funds allocated to the District of Columbia under section 104(b) of Title 23.
   • This withholding will occur on the first day of each fiscal year following the enactment of this bill if the Mayor has not complied with the requirements outlined in subsection (b).

2. Compliance Requirements:

   • The Mayor of the District of Columbia must take the following actions within 60 days of the bill's enactment:
     • Remove the phrase "Black Lives Matter" from:
     • 16th Street, N.W., between H Street, N.W., and K Street, N.W. (currently designated as Black Lives Matter Plaza under the Black Lives Matter Plaza Designation Act of 2020).
     • All websites, documents, and other materials under the jurisdiction of the District of Columbia.
     • Redesignate the street as "Liberty Plaza."

Affected Parties

• District of Columbia Government: The bill directly impacts the Mayor and the administration of the District of Columbia, as compliance is required to avoid financial penalties.
• Residents and Visitors: The change in designation and removal of the phrase may affect local residents, businesses, and visitors who engage with the area and its symbolism.

Procedural Aspects

• The bill was introduced and referred to the Subcommittee on Highways and Transit and the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure on the same day, March 03, 2025.
• The timeline for compliance is set at 60 days post-enactment, which will be critical for the Mayor to avoid the withholding of funds.

Conclusion

HR 1774 seeks to enforce a specific political and cultural change in the District of Columbia through financial incentives and penalties. The bill reflects ongoing national discussions regarding the symbolism of public spaces and the role of local governance in addressing these issues.