Councilmember Anita Bonds

Maddy summaryThis bill updates the rules for notaries in the District of Columbia to clarify their language requirements and training oversight. It allows notaries to refuse a request if they cannot read or understand the language of the document being notarized and permits them to ask for an official translation if needed. Additionally, the law changes so that the Mayor approves notary training courses rather than providing them directly. These changes aim to ensure notaries can properly verify documents while accommodating multilingual communities.

Maddy summaryThis bill temporarily delays the start date for increasing the minimum wage for tipped workers in the District of Columbia from January 1, 2023, to May 1, 2023. It directly affects employers and employees in the service industry who rely on tips for their income. The change is set to expire 225 days after it takes effect, ensuring the postponement is only in place for a limited period.

Maddy summaryThis bill proposes to increase penalties for violent crimes committed against election workers, including Board of Elections members, employees, and volunteers, while they are performing their duties. It directly affects individuals who commit offenses such as assault, kidnapping, or threats of violence against these officials by allowing fines and prison terms to be raised to one and a half times the standard maximum. The law applies specifically to a long list of serious crimes, including murder, robbery, and arson, when committed against those working in elections. If approved, this emergency measure would remain in effect for no longer than 90 days.

Maddy summaryThis bill temporarily increases penalties for violent and dangerous crimes committed against election workers in the District of Columbia. It directly affects individuals who assault, threaten, or harm Board of Elections members, employees, or volunteers while they are performing their official duties. Under the new provisions, anyone convicted of offenses such as assault, kidnapping, or arson against these workers could face fines and prison sentences that are up to 1.5 times the standard maximum. The enhanced punishments apply to a wide range of serious crimes, including murder, robbery, and identity theft, if committed against election staff. This measure is set to expire 225 days after it takes effect.

Maddy summaryThis resolution declares an emergency to extend penalties for crimes against election workers in the District of Columbia before current protections expire in January. It aims to address rising threats, such as harassment and property damage, faced by officials and volunteers during and after the 2024 presidential election. By increasing legal consequences for these offenses, the bill seeks to deter future attacks and ensure the safety of election staff. The measure applies immediately and serves as a temporary safeguard until permanent legislation can be passed.

Maddy summaryThis ceremonial resolution officially designates November as National Family Caregivers Month in the District of Columbia. The bill aims to honor and raise awareness for the millions of unpaid family members who provide essential care to loved ones. It encourages all citizens to recognize and thank these caregivers for their dedication and sacrifices. The measure takes effect immediately upon publication in the District of Columbia Register.

Maddy summaryThis ceremonial resolution formally recognizes the Duke Ellington School of the Arts as it celebrates its 50th anniversary. The bill honors the school's history, from its founding in 1968 to its current status as a prominent arts-integrated public high school, and acknowledges its notable alumni and partnerships. It commends the school's leadership, faculty, and supporters for their contributions to education and culture in the District of Columbia. The measure has no operational effect and serves solely to publicly celebrate the institution's legacy.

Maddy summaryThis ceremonial resolution formally recognizes the 51st anniversary of the 1973 Home Rule Act, which granted the District of Columbia limited self-government. The bill does not create new laws or alter existing policies but instead serves to honor the historical milestone and the long struggle for local autonomy. It includes a brief historical overview of D.C.'s governance evolution and notes that residents still lack full voting representation in Congress. The resolution takes effect immediately upon publication and is intended solely as a symbolic acknowledgment of the event.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends the District of Columbia Election Code to address a specific federal requirement for filling vacancies in the office of Delegate. It mandates that if the Speaker of the House declares extraordinary circumstances, defined as more than 100 vacancies in the House of Representatives, the Board of Elections must hold a special election for the Delegate within 49 days. Under normal conditions where this federal threshold is not met, the existing local laws regarding appointment or special election timelines will remain in effect. The legislation clarifies that the federal rule applies only during these specific extraordinary circumstances rather than replacing all current vacancy procedures.

Maddy summaryThis ceremonial resolution officially recognizes the Washington Capitals as they celebrate their 50th anniversary season in the District of Columbia. The bill highlights the team's history since joining the NHL in 1974, noting its growth from an expansion squad to a franchise with a Stanley Cup victory and numerous notable players. It also acknowledges specific events planned for the anniversary, including a special game night and a temporary transformation of Palmer Alley into a Capitals-themed area. The resolution expresses congratulations to the team, its staff, alumni, and fans for their contributions to sports and the community over the past five decades.