This bill temporarily modifies the District of Columbia's green building laws to provide exemptions from strict net-zero energy standards for specific projects. It directly affects new construction, additions, and alterations by allowing temporary buildings, small additions under 10,000 square feet, and facilities like police stations, fire stations, and swimming pools to bypass certain energy requirements. The legislation also clarifies legal definitions for terms such as "aquatic center" and "temporary building" to ensure consistent application of these rules. Additionally, it grants a grace period for projects that submitted permits before October 1, 2024, to comply with updated regulations once final rules are established.
This resolution declares an emergency to fix a legal gap that would cause inconsistent net-zero energy rules for District-funded building projects. It repeals two temporary laws that currently pause strict energy standards for affordable housing and updates the definition of net-zero energy for all projects. By clearing these temporary provisions, the bill ensures that future changes to energy standards can be applied uniformly to both residential and nonresidential developments without causing uncertainty for developers.
The Net Zero Continuity Emergency Amendment Act of 2026 amends Washington, D.C.'s Green Building Act to temporarily exempt certain projects from strict net-zero energy requirements. This legislation specifically allows temporary buildings, small additions under 10,000 square feet, and critical facilities like police and fire stations to bypass energy standards until new regulations are finalized. It also clarifies definitions for specific structures, such as natatoriums and aquatic centers, and provides a grace period for projects with permits submitted before October 1, 2024. These changes aim to provide flexibility for ongoing construction while the city finalizes updated energy conservation rules.
This bill designates the District of Columbia as the nation's "Tech for Good Capital" and creates a new tax incentive program for technology companies that develop solutions for public-interest challenges. To qualify for a real property tax abatement, these companies must be based in the District and primarily focused on areas such as civic engagement, public health, climate resilience, and education. The legislation also establishes a working group to create a marketing strategy and authorizes the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development to support innovation clusters aimed at strengthening the local economy.
This bill amends existing laws to strengthen consumer protections for residential electricity and natural gas customers in Washington, D.C. It requires third-party energy suppliers to cap their prices at no more than 110% of the standard utility rate, with exceptions allowed for suppliers offering renewable energy or those deemed to be in the public interest. Additionally, the legislation grants residents the right to cancel their energy contracts at any time without facing early termination fees or penalties. The bill also holds energy companies legally responsible for any violations committed by their agents, contractors, or brokers.
The School Food Waste Reduction and Composting Act of 2026 requires public schools and charter schools in Washington, D.C., to separate food waste for composting starting in January 2027. This law assigns specific duties to city agencies, such as the Department of Public Works for enforcement and the Department of General Services for providing necessary bins and signage. Additionally, the bill mandates that schools donate excess edible food where possible and requires the city to publish annual reports on compliance and donation efforts.
This emergency bill approves a contract with Compost Crew, Inc. to provide organic waste collection, hauling, and processing services for single-family households in Washington, DC, including supplying waste bins to participating residents. The legislation authorizes payment of up to $4.1 million for the initial contract period and corrects an error in the original contract proposal. The contract is set to run from January 15, 2026, through January 14, 2027, with potential for future extensions that could serve additional households. The bill allows the District to proceed with the agreement despite procedural requirements that would normally apply to such contracts.
This ceremonial resolution honors Liz Crafford for her volunteer leadership and advocacy in protecting the District of Columbia's natural environment. The bill recognizes her work leading the Shepherd Park Weed Warriors, a community group that removes invasive plants and restores native vegetation, as well as her role in drafting legislation to establish an Office of Natural Area Conservation. It also acknowledges her advocacy for improved park maintenance and solid waste collection oversight. The resolution formally cites the measure as the "Liz Crafford Recognition Resolution of 2026" and takes effect immediately.
This bill is a confirmation resolution that formally approves Jennifer Wade's appointment to the Green Finance Authority Board in the District of Columbia. The resolution confirms her role as a board member with expertise in clean energy, clean infrastructure, clean transportation, stormwater management, or green infrastructure, filling a vacant seat for the remainder of an unexpired term ending July 9, 2028. The bill requires the Council to transmit a copy of the resolution to both the nominee and the Mayor upon adoption. This is a procedural measure that facilitates the appointment process rather than creating new policy or funding mechanisms.
This bill proposes a 15% sales tax on disposable wipes, including pre-moistened tissues and cloths marketed as flushable, while exempting bidets from sales tax. The revenue generated from the tax would be directed to DC Water to fund capital improvements and repairs to the city's sewer infrastructure. The legislation defines nonwoven disposable products as items designed for personal hygiene that are commonly used for flushing but degrade slowly in sewer systems. By taxing these products and incentivizing bidet use, the bill aims to reduce clogs and backups that damage shared sewer infrastructure. The changes apply to all sales of qualifying wipes within the District of Columbia starting October 1, 2026.
