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*2025 Fall Edition*
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* A Message from the Director [ #link_1 ]
* DLCP Accomplishments | Three Years of Impact Across the District [ #link_9 ]
* Key Administrative and Regulatory Changes [ #link_12 ]
* A New Chapter | DLCP Celebrates Renovated Service Center and Fall Forum [ #link_3 ]
* Looking Ahead | DLCP’s October Events [ #link_10 ]
* Talent Capital Connects Workers to Jobs Across the DMV [ #link_11 ]
* Strengthening Partnerships | DLCP Participates in Georgetown BID Annual Meeting [ #link_4 ]
* DLCP Hosts Successful Financial Business Speed Coaching Event [ #link_6 ]
* Real Estate Meets Real Opportunity | DLCP at Kogod Career Expo [ #link_7 ]
* DLCP Hosts Successful 2025 Security Agency Licensure Refresher [ #link_8 ]
* Legislative Updates | In Case You Missed It [ #link_5 ]
* Contact Us [ #link_2 ]

A Message from the Director

tiffany [ [link removed] ]

Dear Customers, Colleagues, and Friends,

Fall has arrived in the District, bringing with it a sense of renewal and fresh opportunity. October 1 not only marks the beginning of Fiscal Year 2026—it also represents a meaningful milestone in our journey. This month, the Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP) proudly celebrates three years since our transformation from the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs (DCRA) into the agency we are today.  

Over the past three years, DLCP has grown into a more agile, customer-focused agency—one that is deeply committed to supporting businesses and protecting consumers across all eight wards. This anniversary is more than a marker of time; it’s a celebration of progress, innovation, and the partnerships that have helped shape our success. 

We’re excited to share this newsletter as a reflection of how far we’ve come. Among our most recent achievements is the implementation of the Business and Entrepreneurship Support to Thrive (BEST) Act [ [link removed] ]—a landmark initiative that simplifies and modernizes the business licensing process in the District. It’s one of many steps we’ve taken to make doing business in DC easier, faster, and more transparent. You can read more about the BEST Act and other key accomplishments since our transition below. 

Last month, DLCP celebrated the grand opening of the Yeleen Beauty Makerspace, a groundbreaking facility that’s revolutionizing how beauty products are made in the District. We’re proud to support initiatives like Yeleen that reduce barriers, streamline licensing, and help small businesses to flourish. Learn more about the celebration by visiting our DLCP Hub [ [link removed] ].

As we look ahead to the holiday season and beyond, DLCP remains focused on delivering excellent service to the District’s business community. We invite you to connect with us during DC Start Up & Tech Week, October 20–24, where we’ll engage with entrepreneurs, share resources, and celebrate innovation across the city.  

October is also National Women's Small Business Month, a time to honor the powerful contributions of women entrepreneurs. Throughout the month, we’ll spotlight six inspiring women-owned small businesses that are shaping the future of Ward 7 and beyond.  

Thank you for being part of our journey. Whether you’ve been with us since the beginning or are just getting to know DLCP, we’re grateful for your continued engagement and support. Here’s to three years of progress—and many more to come. 


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Tiffany Crowe
Director

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DLCP Accomplishments | Three Years of Impact Across the District

DLCP Forward

Since launching in October 2022, DLCP has been focused on making it easier to do business in the District while protecting consumers and strengthening local communities. In less than two years, our work has been driven by a clear mission, bold ideas, strategic partnerships, and a deep commitment to public service.

Here are a few highlights from our journey:


* *DLCP Leads Multi-Agency Enforcement on the National Mall: [ [link removed] ]* In a coordinated enforcement operation, DLCP partnered with federal and District agencies to address growing concerns over unlicensed vending and public safety. The effort resulted in 32 towed food trucks, five junk vehicles removed, and 46 citations issued. DLCP also conducted on-the-ground outreach to educate vendors about licensing requirements and how to operate legally and successfully in the District.
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*Consumer Protection Unit (CPU) Investigations Up 58%: [ [link removed] ]* In FY2025, DLCP’s CPU saw a 58.2% increase in investigations, driven by innovative enforcement strategies and collaboration with sister agencies. These efforts strengthened protections for the economic interests of District residents, businesses, and visitors. In FY2026, CPU will streamline internal systems, deepen strategic partnerships, and expand proactive enforcement to further advance DLCP’s mission.


* *Faster License Processing Times:* Between Fiscal Years 2023 and 2025 (excluding Q4 of FY25), professional licensing processing times dropped by 25% annually. Compared to FY23, DLCP saved an average of 12 days per license in FY25—making it faster and easier for professionals to get licensed and start working. These gains highlight DLCP’s progress in streamlining services and reducing barriers for District residents and businesses. 
* *Reduced Downtime Improves Access:* In FY2025 and over the past three years, DLCP reduced application downtime by approximately 35%, unlocking over 1,200 hours of added system availability. That’s equivalent to 150 business days of regained productivity. This improvement was driven by targeted infrastructure upgrades, cloud resource scaling, enhanced monitoring, and disciplined vendor coordination across mission-critical platforms including Accela, DC Business Center, OPLA, and core infrastructure. 
* *Compliance Surge in FY2025:* Issued 1,424 Notices of Infraction (NOIs) in Fiscal Year 2025—a 40% increase from FY 2024 (1,019 NOIs). Over the past three years, NOI issuance has grown at an average annual rate of 47%, reflecting consistent, compounded growth in enforcement. These results highlight DLCP’s commitment to consumer protection, fair business practices, and accountability across the District.
* *DLCP’s BRC Community Outreach: [ [link removed] ]* DLCP’s Business Resource Center (BRC) has engaged with neighborhoods across DC, hosting workshops at Sycamore & Oak, General Business License Bootcamps with the Marshall Heights Community Development Organization, and Financial Literacy Speed Coaching events. Through these efforts, small business owners receive practical guidance and direct access to resources that help them grow and navigate the local business landscape.
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*Moving Forward on the BEST Act: [ [link removed] ]* Funded effective October 1, the Business and Entrepreneurship Support to Thrive (BEST) Act is transforming how business licenses work in DC. Key changes include:


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Reducing license types from over 100 to just 10


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Lowering fees to $99 for two years or $49 for six months


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Waiving fees for businesses earning less than $10,000 annually


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Creating a fair renewal system based on business revenue


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Simplifying rules and giving DLCP flexibility to adapt to community needs

As DLCP celebrates this milestone, we continue to improve business services, protect consumers, and promote inclusive growth across all eight wards.

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Key Administrative and Regulatory Changes

In FY2025, DLCP advanced major reforms to reduce licensing barriers and modernize professional standards across multiple industries in preparation for the BEST Act.


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*Accountancy [ [link removed] ]*: Updated CPA experience requirements, extended exam timelines, clarified reciprocity, and aligned exam structure with NASBA standards.


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*Real Estate Appraisers [ [link removed] ]*: Revised pre-licensure and continuing education to include valuation bias and fair housing laws, effective January 2026.


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*Barber and Cosmetology [ [link removed] ]*: Introduced inclusive license classes, reduced training hours, removed manager license requirement, and created a new pathway for instructor licensing.

DLCP will continue this momentum in FY2026 by supporting the Mayor’s Growth Agenda [ [link removed] ] and promoting fair, accessible licensing across the District.

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A New Chapter | DLCP Celebrates Renovated Service Center and Fall Forum

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On Monday, September 15, DLCP marked a major milestone with the grand reopening of its Customer Service Center, now permanently located on the second floor of its headquarters. The ribbon cutting ceremony, held in partnership with the Department of Buildings (DOB) and Director Brian Hanlon, celebrated the completion of a modernized space designed to better serve District residents and businesses.

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Just over a week later, on Tuesday, September 23, DLCP welcomed community members, agency partners, and staff to its Fall Forum Open House. The event invited attendees to connect with colleagues, meet DLCP senior leadership and managers, and enjoy light refreshments while engaging with members of the community.



Guests toured the newly renovated Customer Service Center, which features streamlined service stations, expanded meeting rooms including a multi-purpose room, training room, and shared boardroom, as well as new office and workspaces for staff.

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Several core services have relocated to the second floor, including business licensing support for vending and short-term rentals, consumer complaint resolution, and guidance on occupational and professional licensing. Together, the reopening and Fall Forum  delivered high-quality service and strengthened its connection with residents and business owners in the District.



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Looking Ahead | DLCP’s October Events

October is shaping up to be an exciting month for DLCP, with events that spotlight innovation, community engagement, and economic growth. Find out how you can fuel your business forward.


* *DC Start Up & Tech Week*: The largest entrepreneurial, innovation, and tech community in the DC, Maryland, and Virginia region comes together for the 10th annual DC Startup & Tech Week (DCSTW), happening Monday, October 20 to Friday, October 24, 2025. Expect a packed schedule of events, hands-on workshops, and high-impact networking sessions designed to spark innovation and build lasting connections across the startup and tech ecosystem.

Click Here To Register [ [link removed] ]

* *Grow Your Business with The Business Resource Center (BRC)*: The BRC at DLCP is your go-to destination for expert guidance, hands-on support, and practical resources to help you start and grow your business in Washington, DC. From licensing and registration to workshops and one-on-one assistance, BRC is here to make your journey into entrepreneurship smoother and more accessible. Explore below to see upcoming opportunities.

Click Here To Register [ [link removed] ]

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Talent Capital Connects Workers to Jobs Across the DMV

DC Mayor Muriel Bowser announced Talent Capital, a groundbreaking regional workforce and economic development initiative designed to connect displaced workers with high-quality jobs and future-ready training across the District, Maryland, and Virginia. Unveiled October 1, the initiative, housed at the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (COG), marks a major milestone in regional collaboration and innovation.

Powered by local tech firm BuildWithin, the TalentCapital.AI platform uses AI-driven tools to match job seekers with opportunities, provide personalized career navigation, and deliver tailored training and reskilling resources. The platform is free to use and supported by a growing network of partners, including universities, nonprofits, and workforce agencies.

DLCP strongly supports this initiative and encourages employers to enroll and take advantage of the platform’s tools to connect with skilled talent. There is a clear pathway for employers to participate, and DLCP urges businesses to explore how Talent Capital can help meet their workforce needs while contributing to regional economic growth.

As the infrastructure continues to evolve, Talent Capital will incorporate user feedback and expand its offerings so that residents and employers benefit from an inclusive and future-focused workforce system.

To learn more or get involved, visit TalentCapital.AI [ [link removed] ].

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Strengthening Partnerships | DLCP Participates in Georgetown BID Annual Meeting

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The Georgetown Business Improvement District (BID) hosted its highly anticipated Annual Meeting, bringing together local business leaders, property owners, and government partners to reflect on the year’s accomplishments and discuss future initiatives. On Thursday, September 18, held in the heart of Georgetown, the event served as a forum for updates, collaboration, and strategic planning.



Among the featured speakers was DLCP Director Tiffany Crowe, who shared insights into the agency’s mission and its ongoing efforts to support businesses across the District. Attendees had the chance to learn more about DLCP’s services and explore potential partnerships that contribute to Georgetown’s continued growth.

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The meeting also offered networking opportunities, as stakeholders connected with peers, city officials, and BID leadership to exchange ideas and build relationships. We thank Georgetown BID for welcoming DLCP to this year’s Annual Meeting and for creating a space that fosters meaningful dialogue, collaboration, and community engagement.



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DLCP Hosts Successful Financial Business Speed Coaching Event

On Wednesday, September 17, DLCP welcomed entrepreneurs and small business owners to its Financial Business Speed Coaching event, held in the lounge area on the third floor of DLCP headquarters. Presented by the DLCP Business Resource Center (BRC), the event drew a strong turnout and fostered meaningful connections between attendees and business experts.

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The lounge was energized as business owners engaged in one-on-one coaching sessions designed to deliver practical guidance and strategic insight. Throughout the morning, participants received personalized support in 15-minute sessions, addressing key topics such as startup planning, licensing, financing, and business growth.



Representatives from several government agencies and financial institutions were on hand to offer expert advice and connect attendees with resources to help advance their business goals. DLCP remains committed to providing impactful programming that supports entrepreneurs and contributes to the growth and vitality of DC’s small business community.

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Real Estate Meets Real Opportunity | DLCP at Kogod Career Expo

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Representatives from DLCP, including members of the Real Estate Commission, participated in the Fall 2025 Career Expo hosted by the Kogod School of Business at American University. On Wednesday, September 17, the event brought together a mix of employers, industry leaders, and students pursuing degrees in Accounting, Finance, Analytics, Marketing, Real Estate, and more. 

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The Real Estate Commission was invited to connect directly with students interested in careers in real estate and regulatory affairs. The event saw a strong turnout, with students participating in conversations, asking insightful questions, and learning about opportunities in both the public and private sectors.




DLCP staff shared information about the Commission’s role in licensing and oversight, and discussed ways students can contribute to the future of real estate regulation and consumer protection in the District. DLCP takes pride in supporting career development and strengthening partnerships with academic institutions such as American University.


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DLCP Hosts Successful 2025 Security Agency Licensure Refresher

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DLCP's Occupational and Professional Licensing (OPL) division hosted the 2025 Security Agency Licensure Refresher at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library Auditorium.

On Friday, September 12, the event welcomed agency owners, licensees, and administrators from across the District. Designed for all active Security Program agencies, the training highlighted updates to the current licensing systems and offered step-by-step guidance on helping affiliated officers complete licensure applications.

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The event was well attended and received positive feedback from participants, who valued the opportunity to receive up-to-date information, connect with DLCP staff, and strengthen their understanding of licensure requirements. The success of this refresher session reflects DLCP supports the security industry by providing resources, training, and guidance to help agencies remain compliant and serve the District.




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Legislative Updates | In Case You Missed It

*Look below for DLCP-related Council happenings and new laws*

Mayor Muriel Bowser's Grow DC budget plan [ [link removed] ] continues to move through the budget process. On September 4, 2025, the Mayor signed the modified Fiscal Year 2026 Local Budget Act of 2025 (Bill 26-260) [ [link removed] ], the dollars-and-cents part of the budget, and Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Support Act of 2025 (Bill 26-265) [ [link removed] ], the legislative part of the budget to implement the budget’s finances. The budget invests in a growth agenda to attract new businesses, create jobs, and generate revenue in the District. Provisions include *allowing DLCP to waive fines and penalties for business licenses and corporate filings, often a barrier for small businesses*. The budget was sent on September 10th to Congress for review with a projected law date of October 29th. *Look for a final Fiscal Year 2026 budget update post Congressional review!*

*Two bills pertinent to DLCP recently passed Congressional review and are now official law! *


* On August 23, 2025, the Farmers Market Support Amendment Act of 2025 (B26-0109) [ [link removed] ] became law. It establishes a farmers market support program within the Department of Health. The program will provide technical assistance to farmers markets, farm stands, and mobile markets and *help coordinate the District agencies, including DLCP, that regulate farmers markets*. The Council of the District of Columbia funded the law in the Fiscal Year 2026 budget.
* On August 30, 2025, the Consumer Protection Clarification Amendment Act of 2025 (B26-0045) [ [link removed] ] became law. It clarifies the extent to which the District government is a merchant and subject to the Consumer Protection Procedures Act, the District law protecting consumers from businesses’ unfair and deceptive practices.

*On September 17, 2025, Council Chairman Phil Mendelson will introduce the Business Licensing Reform Emergency Amendment Act of 2025 to build on the business licensing reforms *in the Business and Entrepreneurship Support to Thrive Amendment Act of 2021 [ [link removed] ] (BEST Act). As introduced, the bill would assist businesses in obtaining and retaining licenses by:


* Conforming the community notification requirement for applications for basic business licenses for entertainment businesses to align with DLCP’s current procedures;
* Reinstituting the following two important business licensing provisions that the BEST Act removed:
* 4-year licenses; and
* Mayoral discretion to issue refunds to businesses for erroneously paid licensing fees; and

* Allowing businesses whose licenses have expired for more than 9 months to renew the license upon payment of the applicable fines and fees.

*On September 19, 2025, DLCP will publish the Seller Disclosure Statement Notice of Proposed Rulemaking in the "D.C. Register". *The rulemaking would update the Real Property Seller’s Disclosure Statement consistent with District law and make technical revisions to the form to address confusing and ambiguous provisions. Upon publication of the proposed rulemaking, the public will have 30 days to comment. The public may submit comments to April R. Randall, DLCP’s Legislative Director, at [email protected].

*On October 1, 2025, DLCP will implement the BEST Act.* The BEST Act streamlines the business licensure process and reduces the business licensing fees for businesses. Starting October 1st:


* Businesses will navigate less categories of business licenses when they apply for a license;
* Businesses will pay a reduced, flat fee for a license, with no additional endorsement fees; and
* Emerging and seasonal businesses may apply for a shorter and cheaper license, a 6-month license with a fee of $49.

*Also on October 1, 2025, the Council of the District of Columbia, Committee on Business and Economic Development will hold a hearing on the **Recycling Refund and Litter Reduction Amendment Act of 2025 (B26-0058)* [ [link removed] ]. As introduced, the bill would establish a beverage container deposit program in which consumers pay a 10-cent deposit on applicable beverages, which they would be refunded when they return the beverage containers to a redemption facility. *DLCP would develop standards and a licensing process for the establishment and operation of the redemption facilities.* DLCP has provided comments and edits on the bill.

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Contact Us

Contact DLCP via email <[email protected]>, or our online inquiry form [ [link removed] ] at any time. We’re also available through the live chat on dlcp.dc.gov [ [link removed] ] or by phone at 202-671-4500 during normal business hours. 

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Government of the District of Columbia - Muriel Bowser, Mayor

*Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection*

1100 4th Street SW, Washington, DC 20024 ǀ 202.671.4500 ǀ dlcp.dc.gov [ [link removed] ]

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