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Neighbors,
October is off to a busy start here at the Council. Tuesday, October 1st, marked the beginning of the new fiscal year, and it also marked the second Legislative Meeting since returning from summer recess. During this week’s meeting, the Council held its final vote to approve two bills that I introduced: Bill 25-581, the Medical Cannabis Clarification and Program Enforcement Amendment Act of 2024, and Bill 25-570, the Cardiac Planning and Response (CPR) Amendment Act of 2024.
In addition, on Wednesday, the Council voted to make important changes to the city’s Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP). These changes aim to better support our most vulnerable residents as housing challenges in our city continue to intensify. I’ve shared my thoughts on our City's housing crisis in this recent op-ed: Read more here.
In service,
Kenyan
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Bill 25-581 (Medical Cannabis Clarification and Program Enforcement Amendment Act of 2024)
This bill aims to support the growth of the medical cannabis industry in the District and ensure it operates optimally for the benefit of qualifying patients. It establishes a stipulated license process for certain medical cannabis businesses to operate while their applications are pending approval, as long as their Advisory Neighborhood Commission (ANC) supports or does not object to the license—a process that currently exists for alcohol establishments. The bill also extends conditional licenses for cultivation centers and manufacturers by an additional six months, due to zoning changes that expand where these facilities may be located. It clarifies the process for granting licenses to unlicensed establishments while expanding the Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Administration’s (ABCA) authority to take enforcement action against non-compliant, unlicensed establishments through padlocking, closure, fines, and cease-and-desist orders. Finally, the bill increases the distance requirements for medical cannabis businesses from a preschool, primary or secondary school, or recreation center from 300 feet to 400 feet, among other changes.
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Bill 25-570, “Cardiac Planning and Response (CPR) Amendment Act of 2024”
Every year, around 2,000 young, seemingly healthy people under 25 in the U.S. die from sudden cardiac arrest, with 40% of those cases being sports-related. To address this, I introduced the Cardiac Planning and Response (CPR) Amendment Act of 2023 to ensure that all students, particularly student-athletes, have access to immediate, life-saving care in the event of a cardiac emergency.
As a father of two student-athletes, this legislation is deeply personal to me. The bill builds on my past efforts as Chairperson of the Committee on the Judiciary to improve cardiac preparedness in schools, including ushering in a 2015 law that required CPR training and the installation of AEDs at all schools. That law also mandated that all coaches, trainers, and school nurses be trained in CPR and AED use, while requiring schools to establish protocols for responding to cardiac arrest.
This new legislation strengthens these protections and further ensures the safety of students across the District by requiring schools to use an evidence-based cardiac emergency response plan, developed through a partnership between the Office of the State Superintendent (OSSE) and the Fire and Emergency Medical Services Department (FEMS). A special thank you to the American Heart Association and 2023 Miss DC, Jude Maboné, for their support in making this bill a reality.
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Two CBED Roundtable Hearings
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Wednesday's Roundtable on Nominations for Key Boards
On Wednesday, October 2, 2024, I convened a public roundtable to receive testimony on four important resolutions:
1. Washington Convention and Sports Authority Board of Directors Nominations
The Committee heard testimony on three nominations to the Washington Convention and Sports Authority Board of Directors:
- George T. Simpson (PR25-0964): Reappointment for a term ending May 16, 2028. Simpson is the President of Spectrum Management and has extensive experience in real estate and alternative sports, including his role as the majority owner of the DC Breeze ultimate frisbee team.
- Marisa Flowers (PR25-0965): Appointed for a term ending May 16, 2027. Flowers has a strong background in public service and real estate consulting and is currently the COO and EVP of Strategy for the Greater Washington Partnership.
- Monica Ray (PR25-0966): Appointed for a term ending May 16, 2028. Ray has expertise in economic and community development, particularly in Ward 8, and has served as President of the Congress Heights Community Training and Development Center.
2. Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Board Nomination
The roundtable also covered the nomination of Teri Janine Quinn (PR25-0802) for the Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Board. Quinn, an attorney specializing in compliance law, particularly in anti-corruption and anti-bribery, has served as President of the Bloomingdale Civic Association and has extensive experience with ABCA issues.
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Last Tuesday's Roundtable
Public Roundtable Recap: Key Nominations for District Boards
On Tuesday, September 24, 2024, I held a public roundtable to review five key nominations for District boards. The hearing was conducted in person and via Zoom.
1. Richard Beverly – DC Public Service Commission
The Committee began with PR25-0806, nominating Richard Beverly for reappointment to the Public Service Commission through June 2028. Beverly, a long-serving member since 1997, is known for his expertise in public utilities and government service.
2. Robert C. Cooper – Real Property Tax Appeals Commission
Next, PR25-0818 confirmed Robert C. Cooper as Vice Chairman of the Real Property Tax Appeals Commission until 2027. Cooper brings years of experience in real estate law and previously chaired RPTAC’s predecessor.
3. Ryan L. Jones – Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Board
PR25-0801 proposed Ryan L. Jones for the Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Board. Jones, a DC-based attorney, has a background in intellectual property law and served as Associate Attorney General for Special Projects.
4. David Meadows – Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Board
PR25-0803 considered David Meadows for another term on the Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Board. Meadows has a long history of public service, including Chief of Staff to Councilmember Anita Bonds.
5. Jamal Holtz – Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Board
Finally, PR25-0963 reviewed Jamal Holtz for the Alcoholic Beverage and Cannabis Board. Holtz, a Chief of Staff at LINK Strategic Partners, brings leadership experience and a commitment to community advocacy.
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Statement from Councilmember McDuffie, Chair of the Ad Hoc Committee
Dear Neighbors,
I have been appointed as Chair of the Ad Hoc Committee tasked with investigating the allegations against Councilmember Trayon White. On September 17th, we took the first important step in ensuring a fair, thorough, and independent investigation. The committee met with outside counsel in a closed session to discuss the investigation strategy, after which the full Council voted to retain the law firm of Latham & Watkins to assist in this process. The contract with Latham & Watkins has now been finalized, with the cost of the investigation capped at $400,000.
The Ad Hoc Committee is not the Court adjudicating Councilmember Trayon White’s criminal charges. The Ad Hoc Committee is established so that the Council can consider whether there have been violations of our code of conduct, rules or policies that warrant Council action. We will provide Councilmember Trayon White with due process as is required by fundamental fairness and under the Council Rules.
We owe it to the residents of the District of Columbia to conduct an independent investigation with integrity before making our recommendations. The deadline by which the Ad Hoc Committee must produce our report and recommendations to the Council is December 16th. It is not appropriate to comment on the substance of the investigation while it is ongoing; however, we will work as quickly as possible and produce that report as soon as the investigation is complete. We will not wait to release it, if we are able to finish before the deadline.
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State of Business Recovery and Economic Development Panel
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Councilmember McDuffie Shares Vision for Economic Development
On Friday, September 27th, I participated in a panel discussion at the State of Business Recovery and Economic Development Panel, held at the Armour J. Blackburn University Center on the Howard University campus. Joined by esteemed panelists:
- Gerren G. Price - President & CEO of DowntownDC Business
- Yesim Sayin - Executive Director of the DC Policy Center
- Nina Albert - Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development
- Robert Murphy - Managing Principal at MRP Realty
My key priorities:
- Empowering downtown
- Preserving and expanding affordable housing
- Supporting the restaurant and hospitality industry through impactful policies
Stay tuned for more updates on my team's and my initiatives and efforts to strengthen our community!
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White House Team USA Olympic Event
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On Monday, September 30th, I had the incredible privilege of attending the White House Team USA Olympic event, where we celebrated our amazing Olympic and Paralympic athletes.
Among the many inspiring figures present was Ryan Medrano, a remarkable Paralympian who brought home two silver medals in the men’s T38 100-meter and 400-meter finals at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. Meeting athletes like Ryan was a true honor for me and I am inspired by their talent, resilience, and dedication.
Celebrating Excellence
I take immense pride in honoring the hard work and commitment that led to the success of these extraordinary athletes. Their achievements not only showcase personal triumphs but also unite us all in the spirit of perseverance and excellence.
Join us in celebrating these champions and their journey from dreams to podiums! Let’s continue to support our athletes as they inspire the next generation!
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Archbishop Carroll High School Visit
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Councilmember McDuffie Visits Archbishop Carroll High School
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On Thursday, September 26th, members of my team and I had an inspiring visit to my alma mater, Archbishop Carroll High School! Connecting with President Larry Savoy and the dedicated faculty, we toured the impressive campus and engaged with curious students, answering their insightful questions. I was particularly proud to see the remarkable advancements made across the board, including the outstanding Jim Vance Media Center.
As a former Lion, I will always cherish the lifelong lessons and opportunities that I gained at Archbishop Carroll and I am honored to support the continued growth and success of our local schools!
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Small Business Spotlight
Sycamore & Oak (Ward 8)
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Discover Sycamore & Oak: A Year-Round Hub for Community & Commerce
Located at 1110 Oak Dr SE in Ward 8, Sycamore & Oak spans over 20,000 square feet of vibrant space, making it a year-round destination for shopping, arts, culture, entertainment, and wellness resources. This Retail Village supports small businesses, especially local Black entrepreneurs, through initiatives like Incubate the Eight, which sharpens business and marketing skills, and Chefs-In-Residence, providing mentorship from the Jose Andres Group to food and drink vendors.
Home to 14 Black-owned businesses founded by local entrepreneurs, Sycamore & Oak is a place where innovation, culture, and community thrive together.
Councilmember McDuffie Visit: A Stylish Stop at The Museum Shop DC
Yesterday, October 3rd, I decided to stop by The Museum Shop DC, one of Sycamore & Oak’s standout vendors. Co-founded by LeGreg Harrison and Muhammed Hill, the shop offers a curated collection of culturally-inspired items. After exploring their unique inventory, I picked out a standout shirt—that showcased the shop's creativity and dedication to producing quality clothing.
Sycamore & Oak is not just a place to shop, but a community where local talent and culture are celebrated and supported.
Support local. Experience Sycamore & Oak today!
Click here to visit Sycamore & Oak's website: https://www.sycamoreandoak.com/
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Councilmember in The News
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“Go-Go is DC’s indigenous musical genre, and I am pleased to have championed the efforts at the Council to designate it as the official music of DC. I look forward to working with Mayor Bowser and her administration for a thorough and impactful implementation, which will bring the Go-Go community closer to the District’s already strong economy and, in doing so, make our city more equitable and prosperous for all.” - Councilmember McDuffie
D.C. Council Passes Emergency Bill To Address Unpaid Rent Crisis
“Without action, we really could see a wave of defaults and a loss of affordability covenants that could destabilize the very progress in affordable housing we've worked so hard to achieve,” - Councilmember McDuffie
“When I grew up here in the 1980s, the District was the economic hole in a donut,” he said. “There was a need for economic growth then. We have that now with hospitality being huge [in the city]. We are also getting recognition for our restaurants. The best restaurants are independently owned, not the chains.” - Councilmember McDuffie
Read Councilmember McDuffie's Op-Ed: Housing Crisis Demands Action, Greater Urgency
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Upcoming Events in the Community
DC Walk for Justice 5K
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"The DC Walk for Justice 5K aims to raise $250,000 for the District’s pressing civil legal needs. All proceeds from the DC Walk for Justice 5K benefit the DC Bar Foundation, which works to make civil legal aid more accessible for all District residents through grantmaking, network coordination, community engagement, and more. The DC Bar Foundation is committed to transforming the District’s civil legal aid network so that all residents have a fair and equal legal experience." - The DC Bar Foundation (https://www.dcbarfoundation.org/walk-for-justice)
Timeline of the DC Walk for Justice 5k:
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3:00 pm - Centerfield Gates open for participants
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4:00 pm - Welcome Remarks
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4:10 pm - Warm-Up
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4:30 pm - Walk Starts
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5:00 pm - Finish Line Party food & beverage service begins
Click here to register: https://www.tfaforms.com/5105002
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