Legislative Agenda

Updates:

• Dram Shop Clarification Amendment Act of 2023 (Liquor Liability Reform): Projected to become law on June 5, 2024.
• Cashless Retailers Prohibition Amendment Act of 2020: This act prohibits retail establishments from refusing cash payments and includes enforcement provisions. Enforcement has been delayed to January 1, 2025, as part of the Secure DC Omnibus Amendment Act of 2024. We believe resources could be better used to promote banking access programs from the Department of Insurance, Securities, and Banking.
• Removal of ORH Sexual Harassment Training Requirement: Following the repeal of Initiative 77 in 2018, a law was enacted requiring sexual harassment training for all employers of tipped workers. Managers must attend in-person training, while owners, operators, and non-managerial employees can now complete it online. With the passage of Initiative 82, there's a growing consensus that this training requirement should be reconsidered and potentially removed, leaving it to the discretion of individual businesses.

DCNC seeks full Council support for the following legislation:

• Small Retailer Property Tax Relief Credit: Small businesses with federal gross receipts under $2.5 million annually can receive a $5,000 tax credit each year. This initiative, introduced by Councilmember Allen and Chairman Mendelson in 2018, offers straightforward financial relief without the need for a grant process. Councilmember Allen is advocating to increase this rebate to $10,000, providing more support at a minimal cost to the city.
• Clean Hands Reform: We support At-Large Councilmember Kenyan McDuffie's proposal to amend the Clean Hands law. The amendment aims to eliminate restrictions preventing residents with minor financial delinquencies from obtaining occupational and small business licenses. It also seeks to raise the Clean Hands threshold from $100 to $2,500.
• Harmonious Living Amendment Act of 2024 (pending clarification and potential adjustments to enforcement): This act introduces new soundproofing standards for residential units in commercial corridors to prevent noise complaints against businesses. It requires developers to soundproof new residential units, especially those within 300 feet of performance venues. The act also mandates that lease or purchase agreements in entertainment zones include disclosures about nearby activities, ensuring residents are aware of their environment and promoting community harmony.