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D.C. Control of its Finances
| Source: |
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Washington Post (DC) |
| Date: |
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Friday, October 5, 2012 |
| Author: |
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Editorial Board |
TWO PRESIDENTS and congressional leaders from both parties have recognized that it’s wrong that the District of Columbia lacks autonomy in allocating local tax dollars. Sadly, that support has not translated into action. So it’s about time that city officials take force the issue. They have little to lose and much to gain by giving city residents a voice in this important struggle.
Legislation proposed by D.C. Council Chairman Phil Mendelson (D) and endorsed by the council’s other 12 members would put to a citywide referendum a change in the Home Rule Charter amending the budget process. Instead of the city’s budget being part of the congressional appropriations process, requiring affirmative approval, it would automatically go into effect if not overturned by Congress during a 30-day review period. The strategem of using a little-known provision of the Home Rule Charter to accomplish what Congress has failed to do was developed by the activist groups DC Vote and the DC Appleseed Center for Law and Justice. . .
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http://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/dc-seeks-more-control -over-its-finances/2012/10/05/e946d044-0efa-11e2-bd1a-b868e65d57eb_story.html
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