House Republicans Move to Strip D.C. of Local Control in Sweeping Spending Bill

House Republicans have advanced an appropriations bill packed with provisions that would override Washington, D.C.'s local laws and restrict its autonomy.

The bill proposes slashing funding for college tuition assistance, blocking marijuana sales, banning noncitizen voting, and loosening gun regulations in the city. It also seeks to limit D.C.'s authority on issues like abortion, traffic safety, and public health. Local leaders and D.C.'s congressional delegate have sharply criticized the bill as patronizing and an attack on home rule.

The move has reignited debates over D.C.'s lack of statehood and self-governance.