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

House Republicans have advanced a spending bill that would significantly restrict Washington, D.C.'s autonomy by slashing funding and overriding local laws on issues such as gun control, abortion, traffic safety, and voting rights.

The bill includes provisions to cut college tuition assistance, block marijuana sales, ban noncitizen voting, and loosen gun regulations in the city. Local leaders and D.C.'s congressional delegate have condemned the bill as unreasonable, patronizing, and a direct attack on D.C.'s home rule. These interventions are part of a longstanding pattern where Congress imposes its will on the District, despite local opposition.

The move has reignited debates over D.C. statehood and self-governance.