The D.C. Council has officially approved a budget close to $22 billion for the fiscal year 2026, following extensive deliberations that included numerous last-minute amendments. This decision came at the conclusion of a legislative session that saw Council Chair Phil Mendelson commenting on the unusual nature of these amendments, describing them as “a little wacky.”
Among the approved amendments was a controversial one that removed $30 million from various programs, which many council members opposed. Mendelson stated this action was necessary to ensure the budget balanced, a requirement highlighted by the D.C. chief financial officer (CFO) under pressure to certify it.
Council member Janeese Lewis George expressed her frustration over the situation, criticizing the authority of a non-elected administrator in dictating budget decisions.
The council also debated the funding of Initiative 83, which supports ranked choice voting and open primaries, an initiative previously backed by voters. While the council decided to fund the ranked choice voting aspect, the proposal to implement open primaries was stalled after an amendment that aimed for full funding failed. Some council members favored further study before moving ahead with the implementation.
Another significant point of contention was the minimum wage for tipped workers, as discussions revolved around Initiative 82, which has seen some controversial adjustments since its original passage. An amendment that would increase the tipped wage to 75% of the standard minimum wage by 2034 passed, though supporters of the original initiative voiced concerns about the dilution of its intent.
The council also considered restoring funding for a child tax credit, but this proposal was rejected after concerns were raised regarding its potential impact on legal assistance programs.
Additionally, the budget included provisions to impose penalties on the D.C. mayor for delays in presenting the budget, an issue that has caused timing conflicts with the council’s schedule in the past. This comes in response to budgetary issues that have emerged due to federal government actions that affected D.C.’s tax revenue collection.
This budget represents a significant commitment from the D.C. Council in addressing key financial and social issues within the community, reflecting both the challenges and responsibilities that come with city governance. Through an organized and sometimes contentious debate, the council is taking steps to navigate fiscal accountability while addressing public needs and preferences.