Councilmember Brooke Pinto

Maddy summaryThis bill amends District of Columbia laws to clarify how abbreviated probate proceedings work and to ensure these rules apply to estates of people who died on or after March 21, 2025. Under the new provisions, the Register of Wills can refer cases to the Court if they need to decide whether to appoint a personal representative or admit a will to probate, rather than handling these determinations alone. The legislation also updates legal notice requirements by allowing notices to be published in either a legal periodical or a general newspaper, and it repeals a specific section regarding transfers by affidavit. These changes are designed to streamline the administration of estates while maintaining oversight for complex situations.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates the District of Columbia Department of Corrections as the agency responsible for providing free public education to young adults with disabilities who are detained in its secure facilities. It specifically applies to individuals aged 18 through the end of their eligibility for special education services, covering the 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 school years. The legislation mandates that these services be delivered in accordance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and local District laws. As an emergency amendment, the bill is intended to take effect immediately upon approval and will remain in force for no longer than 90 days.

Maddy summaryThis bill grants a permanent real property tax exemption for three specific properties owned or being sold to Society for Science, Inc. The exemption applies to properties at 1719 N St. NW (Lot 0062, Square 0158), 1723 N St. NW (Lot 0802, Square 0158), and 800 8th St. NW (Lot 0031, Square 0404), covering both the land and any improvements. The exemption removes the requirement for these properties to pay real property taxes under Chapter 8 of the District of Columbia tax code, provided Society for Science continues to own and use them. This exemption is in addition to any other tax benefits the organization may receive.

Maddy summaryThis resolution declares a congressional review emergency to prevent a legal gap in volunteer service regulations between two other temporary laws. It authorizes the District of Columbia Council to pass a new amendment using a streamlined process that requires only a single reading. The measure specifically addresses the need to clarify the Attorney General's authority to create rules for using volunteers while ensuring continuous legal coverage.

Maddy summaryThis resolution declares an emergency to fix technical errors in the Strengthening Probate Administration Act of 2024, which aims to modernize how estates are handled in Washington, D.C. The bill directly affects residents dealing with probate by clarifying that the new rules apply to deaths occurring on or after March 21, 2025, and by allowing the Register of Wills to refer cases to a judge if they cannot approve the appointment of an estate manager. It also removes a requirement that prevents people from transferring small estates without starting a formal probate process, ensuring the law can be implemented immediately while the Council is in recess. These changes are intended to speed up the distribution of assets to beneficiaries and reduce delays caused by unclear legal language.

Maddy summaryThis resolution declares an emergency to update deadlines for the Prearrest Diversion Task Force and amend probate publication rules. It extends the deadline for the Task Force to issue its initial recommendations on diverting certain misdemeanor cases from July 2025 to July 2026 due to staffing delays. Additionally, it changes the law to allow legal notices in general newspapers instead of only legal periodicals, which helps ensure residents and creditors receive timely information about estate proceedings. These changes aim to fix implementation issues caused by unclear language and staffing constraints while maintaining the original goals of the legislation.

Maddy summaryThis bill officially closes the unused section of 35th Street N.W. in Ward 2, where no buildings or improvements currently exist. By declaring this area unnecessary for street purposes, the legislation transfers ownership of the land to the adjacent property owners, Squares 1178 and 1179, as detailed on a filed survey map. The act requires the Council to send copies of the law to the District's Office of the Surveyor and the Office of the Recorder of Deeds to finalize the title transfer. Once approved and reviewed by Congress, the closure will legally remove this stretch of road from public use.

Maddy summaryThis resolution designates the District of Columbia Department of Corrections as the official agency responsible for providing free special education services to eligible incarcerated individuals aged 18 and older. It ensures that these individuals, who already have identified disabilities or individualized education plans, continue to receive required support without interruption after a previous contract with Maya Angelou Public Charter Schools expired. The bill authorizes the Department of Corrections to contract with the charter school to deliver these services during the 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 school years. This emergency measure is intended to maintain compliance with federal and local education laws while a permanent version of the legislation undergoes congressional review.

Maddy summaryThis ceremonial resolution honors Theresa DuBois, a resident of Ward 4, for her more than forty years of dedicated service to the District of Columbia. The bill formally recognizes her specific achievements, including her leadership as Director of Community Engagement for Events D.C. and her role in organizing major events like the Washington DC Auto Show. It also highlights her contributions to the Community Grants Program and her reputation for kindness and community building. Upon publication in the District Register, the resolution officially cites itself as the "Theresa DuBois Service Recognition Resolution of 2026" and commends her exemplary public service.

Maddy summaryThis ceremonial resolution officially recognizes and celebrates the 275th anniversary of Georgetown's founding in 1751. The bill highlights the neighborhood's historical significance, including its role as a port town, its status as the first historic district in Washington, and the enduring contributions of Black Americans to its culture and institutions. It formally names the measure the "Georgetown 275th Anniversary Recognition Resolution of 2026" and directs the Council to acknowledge Georgetown's social, cultural, and economic contributions to the District.