D.C. Budget Faces $1 Billion Cuts as Congress Passes Spending Bill

D.C. officials are facing a potential $1.1 billion cut to the city's budget due to a provision in a recent GOP spending bill that treats the District as a federal agency and forces it to revert to its fiscal year 2024 budget. While the Senate passed a separate bill that would allow D.C. to continue operating under its current budget, it still requires approval from the House and the President. Mayor Muriel Bowser and local leaders expressed concerns about the devastating impact these cuts could have on essential services, including public education and safety. D.C. Council members are actively lobbying for provisions to protect the city's budget amid fears of staffing cuts in critical areas. The situation has sparked significant anxiety among residents and officials, as they await further developments in Congress. The ongoing budget battle highlights the unique challenges faced by the District of Columbia in navigating federal funding mechanisms.