Bill · S. 51· Senate(119-S-51)

Washington, D.C. Admission Act

Age: 67 years

Maryland

Introduced: 1/9/2025
Last activity: 1/9/2025 — Read twice and referred to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs.
Sponsored by: Chris Van Hollen
Cosponsors: - 42 - 0

Government Operations and Politics

Introduced
In Committee

What this bill would do

The Washington, D.C. Admission Act provides for the admission of the State of Washington, Douglass Commonwealth into the Union. Upon admission, the state will be entitled to elect two Senators and one Representative to Congress. The bill carves out a specific area to serve as the "Capital," which will remain the seat of the United States government. It includes various provisions regarding the transition of legal status, federal property, and judicial districts. Additionally, the act establishes a Statehood Transition Commission to advise on the orderly transition of power and programs.

Yes· 3 of 18

Does this protect the right to vote?+8
The act provides for the election of two Senators and one Representative, significantly expanding political representation.
Does this make casting a ballot easier in practice?+7
The bill includes provisions to permit absent Capital voters to use absentee registration and voting procedures for Federal elections.
Does this leave more decisions to the states?+7
The bill establishes a commission to oversee the transition of the District of Columbia into a state or a reduced geographical seat of government.

The opposite

Does this give the federal government more power?-2
The bill carves out a 'Capital' area that remains under federal jurisdiction, limiting full state sovereignty.
Does this cut taxes for small businesses?-1
The bill limits the state's authority to tax federal property, which may impact business environments near federal land.