Del. Norton, Eleanor Holmes [D-DC-At Large]
Democrat · DC · 70 bills sponsored
To amend Public Law 87-788 (commonly known as the McIntire-Stennis Cooperative Forestry Act; 16 U.S.C. 582a-7) to provide for equal treatment of the District of Columbia with respect to funds made available under that Act.
# Plain Language Summary of HR 7650 **What the Bill Would Do** This bill would change a decades-old federal forestry funding program to treat Washington, D.C. the same way it treats states. Currently, the McIntire-Stennis Cooperative Forestry Act provides federal money to states for forest research and education programs. However, D.C. is not technically a state, so it may be excluded or treated differently when these funds are distributed. This bill would ensure that D.C. receives an equal share of forestry funding as other jurisdictions. **Who It Affects** The bill primarily affects Washington, D.C. residents, forestry researchers, and educational institutions in the district. It could also benefit environmental and conservation efforts in D.C. More broadly, it represents an ongoing effort to give D.C. equal treatment in federal programs despite its unique political status as a federal district rather than a state. **Current Status** The bill is currently in committee, meaning it has been introduced but hasn't yet been debated or voted on by the full House of Representatives. It was sponsored by D.C.'s delegate to Congress, Eleanor Holmes Norton.
Pittman-Robertson Wildlife Restoration Act and Dingell-Johnson Sport Fish Restoration Act District of Columbia Equality Act of 2026
# Summary of HR 7629 **What the Bill Would Do:** This bill would extend the Pittman-Robertson Wildlife Restoration Act and the Dingell-Johnson Sport Fish Restoration Act to Washington, D.C. These two longstanding federal programs fund wildlife and fish conservation efforts by collecting taxes on hunting/fishing equipment and fuel sales, then distributing those funds to states for habitat restoration and outdoor recreation projects. Currently, D.C. is excluded from receiving these funds, and this bill would change that. **Who It Affects:** The bill primarily affects D.C. residents and wildlife/fisheries agencies in the District. It would also impact hunters, anglers, and outdoor recreation enthusiasts in D.C. who could benefit from increased conservation funding for local waterways and green spaces. The bill relates to broader questions about D.C.'s status and whether it should receive the same federal program benefits as the 50 states. **Current Status:** The bill is in committee and has not yet advanced further in the legislative process. Limited information is publicly available about specific provisions beyond the general scope described above.
Bayard Rustin Stamp Act
# Bayard Rustin Stamp Act Summary **What the Bill Would Do:** The Bayard Rustin Stamp Act would authorize the U.S. Postal Service to issue a commemorative postage stamp honoring Bayard Rustin, a prominent civil rights activist and organizer. If passed, this stamp would recognize Rustin's significant contributions to the American civil rights movement, particularly his role in organizing the 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. **Who It Affects and Key Provisions:** The bill primarily affects the Postal Service's stamp program and would have minimal direct impact on the general public. Commemorative stamps are largely symbolic gestures that allow Americans to honor important historical figures and moments through everyday mail. This stamp would celebrate Rustin's legacy as an organizer, strategist, and advocate for civil rights and peace. **Current Status:** The bill is currently in committee, meaning it has been introduced but not yet voted on by the full House of Representatives. As a commemorative stamp bill, it faces no major political controversy and such measures are routinely considered by Congress.
Golden Thirteen Congressional Gold Medal Act
# Golden Thirteen Congressional Gold Medal Act (HR 7317) **What the Bill Does:** This bill would award Congressional Gold Medals to the "Golden Thirteen," a group of 13 African American naval officers who became the first Black men to be commissioned as officers in the U.S. Navy during World War II. The Congressional Gold Medal is one of the highest civilian honors the U.S. Congress can bestow, recognizing individuals or groups for outstanding contributions to the nation. **Who It Affects:** The bill honors these 13 pioneering officers (or their heirs/estates, as some have passed away) for breaking racial barriers in the military during an era of segregation. It also serves as a form of historical recognition for all Americans interested in civil rights history and military achievement. **Current Status:** The bill is currently in committee, meaning it has been introduced but has not yet been voted on by the full House of Representatives. It was sponsored by Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton, a Democrat from Washington, D.C. The bill has not advanced beyond the committee stage at this time.
To amend title 40, United States Code, to permit commercial filmmaking and photography on the United States Capitol grounds, and for other purposes.
# HR 7162: Commercial Filmmaking on Capitol Grounds **What the Bill Does** This bill would change federal law to allow commercial filmmaking and photography on the grounds of the U.S. Capitol building. Currently, commercial film and photo productions are restricted on Capitol grounds. If passed, the bill would create new rules permitting these activities, presumably under certain conditions or regulations that would need to be established. **Who It Affects** The bill would primarily affect film and television production companies, photographers, and media outlets that want to film or shoot commercial projects at the Capitol. It could also impact Capitol operations and security procedures, as rules would need to be developed to manage commercial activities on the grounds. **Current Status** The bill was introduced by Representative Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC) and is currently in committee, meaning it has not yet been debated or voted on by the full House. No additional provisions or details are listed in the available information.
District of Columbia Courts and Public Defender Service Employment Non-Discrimination Act
# DC Courts and Public Defender Service Employment Non-Discrimination Act Summary **What the Bill Would Do** This bill would prohibit employment discrimination in Washington, D.C.'s court system and Public Defender Service based on sexual orientation, gender identity, or marital status. It would extend workplace protections to employees of these government agencies, ensuring they cannot be fired, denied promotion, or otherwise mistreated based on these personal characteristics. **Who It Affects** The legislation directly impacts employees working for D.C.'s judicial courts and the Public Defender Service (which provides legal representation to defendants who cannot afford attorneys). The bill aims to create more inclusive workplaces within these institutions by clarifying and strengthening anti-discrimination policies. **Current Status** As of now, HR 7020 is in committee, meaning it has been introduced but has not yet been debated or voted on by the full House. It was sponsored by Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton, the non-voting representative from Washington, D.C.
District of Columbia Transportation Funding Equality Act
# District of Columbia Transportation Funding Equality Act Summary **What the Bill Does:** This bill aims to address funding disparities in transportation infrastructure for Washington, D.C. While specific provisions aren't detailed in the available information, the title suggests it would work to ensure the District receives equal or more equitable funding for transportation projects compared to other U.S. cities and regions. This type of legislation typically addresses complaints that D.C. receives less federal transportation funding than similar-sized metropolitan areas. **Who It Affects:** The bill would primarily benefit D.C. residents and commuters who use the region's public transportation system, as well as local businesses dependent on good transit infrastructure. It could also impact federal budget allocations, as any increase in D.C. transportation funding would need to come from somewhere in the federal budget. **Current Status:** As of now, the bill is in committee review (HR 6950 in the 119th Congress). This means it has been introduced but has not yet been debated or voted on by the full House of Representatives. It was sponsored by D.C.'s non-voting delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton. The bill would need to pass committee review and then gain support from the full House before becoming law.
Postal Facilities Security Camera Act
Postal Facilities Security Camera Act. This bill is currently in committee in the 119th Congress.
Thrift Savings Plan Emergency Withdrawal Act of 2025
# Thrift Savings Plan Emergency Withdrawal Act of 2025 - Summary **What the Bill Would Do:** This bill would allow federal employees and military service members to make emergency withdrawals from their Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) accounts without the usual penalties and restrictions. The TSP is a retirement savings plan similar to a 401(k) that federal workers contribute to during their careers. Currently, early withdrawals before retirement age typically come with significant penalties and taxes. If passed, this legislation would create exceptions for financial emergencies, making it easier for eligible account holders to access their retirement savings during hardship situations. **Who It Affects:** The bill primarily impacts federal civilian employees and active-duty military members who have TSP accounts. This could potentially include millions of workers across the federal government and armed services who rely on the TSP as part of their retirement planning. **Current Status:** As of now, the bill (HR 6929) has been introduced in the House of Representatives by Representative Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC) and remains in committee, meaning it has not yet been debated or voted on by the full House. The bill has not advanced to become law.
District of Columbia Chief Financial Officer Salary Home Rule Act
# District of Columbia Chief Financial Officer Salary Home Rule Act Summary **What the Bill Would Do:** This bill would allow the District of Columbia to set the salary for its Chief Financial Officer (CFO) independently, rather than having that salary determined by Congress. Currently, Congress maintains control over certain D.C. government positions and their compensation as part of its broader oversight of the District's budget and operations. **Who It Affects:** The bill primarily affects D.C. government operations and the District's ability to manage its own fiscal affairs. It would give the D.C. government more autonomy in determining executive compensation, which is part of broader home rule debates—the question of how much self-governance D.C. residents should have versus congressional control. **Current Status:** The bill is currently in committee and has not yet been voted on by the full House of Representatives. It was introduced by Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton, D.C.'s non-voting representative in Congress.
Marijuana in Federally Assisted Housing Parity Act of 2025
# Marijuana in Federally Assisted Housing Parity Act of 2025 Summary **What the Bill Would Do** This bill would allow residents of federally assisted housing to use marijuana in the same way that non-federally assisted housing residents can under state law. Currently, federal housing programs prohibit marijuana use even in states where it's legal, creating a situation where public housing tenants face stricter rules than private housing tenants in the same state. The bill aims to remove this federal restriction and align housing rules with state marijuana laws. **Who It Affects and Key Provisions** The bill primarily affects low-income residents living in federally subsidized housing, including public housing and properties that receive federal funding or tax breaks. It would allow these residents to use marijuana for any purpose (medical or recreational) that is legal under their state's law, without risk of eviction or losing housing benefits. The provision brings parity—or equal treatment—between federally assisted housing and private rental properties. **Current Status** As of now, the bill is in committee, meaning it has been introduced but has not yet been debated or voted on by the full House. The bill was sponsored by Eleanor Holmes Norton, a Democratic representative from Washington, D.C.
To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to extend certain tax benefits related to empowerment zones to the District of Columbia.
# Summary of HR 6537 **What the Bill Does** HR 6537 would extend federal tax benefits related to "empowerment zones" to the District of Columbia. Empowerment zones are economically disadvantaged areas designated by the federal government to receive special tax incentives aimed at encouraging business investment and job creation. These tax breaks typically include credits for businesses that hire workers from the zone or make capital investments there. By extending these benefits to D.C., the bill would make the district eligible for these same tax incentives. **Who It Affects** The bill would primarily benefit businesses operating in Washington, D.C., particularly those in economically disadvantaged neighborhoods, as well as residents of those areas who could gain employment opportunities. The federal government would see reduced tax revenue as a result of offering these tax breaks. **Current Status** HR 6537 is currently in committee, meaning it has been introduced but has not yet advanced to a full vote in the House. The bill was sponsored by Eleanor Holmes Norton, D.C.'s delegate to Congress (a non-voting position), reflecting D.C.'s long-standing efforts to secure more favorable economic policy treatment at the federal level.
District of Columbia Special Elections Home Rule Act
# District of Columbia Special Elections Home Rule Act (HR 6339) - Summary **What the Bill Would Do:** This bill would give Washington, D.C. greater control over conducting special elections for its local offices. Currently, Congress has significant authority over D.C.'s local government due to the district's unique constitutional status. This legislation would allow D.C. to set its own rules and procedures for special elections—such as timing, eligibility requirements, and election processes—without requiring congressional approval. It's part of a broader effort to expand home rule (self-governance) for the district. **Who It Affects:** The bill primarily affects D.C. residents and the local government. It would also impact Congress, which would retain less oversight authority over district elections. Election officials in D.C. would gain more flexibility in how they manage special elections. **Key Provisions and Current Status:** While specific provisions weren't detailed in the available information, the bill's core aim is transferring election authority from Congress to D.C. officials. The legislation is currently in committee, meaning it hasn't advanced to a floor vote in the House. This reflects the ongoing political debate over D.C.'s autonomy—supporters view it as democratic self-governance, while opponents argue Congress should maintain certain oversight powers over the nation's capital.
To direct the Librarian of Congress to obtain a stained glass panel depicting the seal of the District of Columbia and install the panel among the stained glass panels depicting the seals of States, which overlook the Main Reading Room of the Library of Congress Thomas Jefferson Building.
# HR 6308 Summary **What the Bill Would Do:** This bill directs the Librarian of Congress to obtain and install a stained glass panel featuring the seal of the District of Columbia in the Main Reading Room of the Library of Congress's Thomas Jefferson Building. Currently, the room displays stained glass panels showing the seals of all 50 states, but DC is not included. The bill would add DC's seal to this collection. **Who It Affects:** The bill primarily affects the Library of Congress and symbolically represents the District of Columbia. It has no direct financial or regulatory impact on the general public, though it addresses a long-standing representation issue for DC residents. **Current Status:** HR 6308 is currently in committee and has not yet been voted on by the full House. The bill was introduced by Eleanor Holmes Norton, the non-voting delegate representing DC in Congress.
Protecting Homes from Trains Act of 2025
# Protecting Homes from Trains Act of 2025 (HR 6064) - Summary **What the Bill Would Do:** The Protecting Homes from Trains Act of 2025 aims to establish or strengthen protections for residential properties located near railroad tracks. While specific provisions aren't detailed in the available information, bills with this title typically address safety hazards, noise pollution, vibrations, or other impacts that trains can have on nearby homes. The legislation would likely set standards for railroad operations or require modifications to reduce negative effects on residential areas. **Who It Affects:** This bill would primarily affect homeowners and residents living in proximity to railroad lines, as well as railroad companies operating in affected areas. Local governments in areas with significant residential-rail corridor overlap could also be impacted if the legislation includes new regulatory requirements or funding provisions. **Current Status:** As of now, HR 6064 is in committee, meaning it has been referred to the appropriate House committee for review and discussion but has not yet been voted on by the full Congress. The bill was introduced by Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton, who represents Washington, D.C. *Note: Specific policy details are limited in available sources; reviewing the full bill text would provide more information about exact provisions and requirements.*
Service Academies District of Columbia Equality Act
# Service Academies District of Columbia Equality Act Summary **What the Bill Would Do:** This bill would allow residents of Washington, D.C. to nominate candidates to the U.S. military service academies (such as West Point, the Naval Academy, and the Air Force Academy) on equal footing with residents of U.S. states and territories. Currently, D.C. residents have limited nomination rights compared to other Americans. If passed, this would give D.C. residents the same access to nominating candidates for these academies as people living in the 50 states and U.S. territories. **Who It Affects:** The bill primarily affects D.C. residents seeking admission to federal military service academies and the Congressional representatives who nominate candidates. It also impacts the military academies themselves and potentially the armed forces by expanding the candidate pool from the nation's capital. **Current Status:** The bill (HR 5971) was introduced in the 119th Congress by D.C.'s non-voting representative, Eleanor Holmes Norton, and remains in committee as of the last update. This means it has not yet been debated or voted on by the full House of Representatives.
District of Columbia Flood Prevention Act of 2025
# District of Columbia Flood Prevention Act of 2025 - Summary **What the Bill Would Do** The District of Columbia Flood Prevention Act of 2025 is designed to address flooding problems in Washington, D.C. While specific provisions aren't detailed in the available information, flood prevention legislation typically authorizes funding and establishes programs to reduce flood risks through infrastructure improvements, drainage system upgrades, or other protective measures. **Who It Affects** This bill would primarily affect D.C. residents and businesses in areas vulnerable to flooding. It may also impact the federal government and taxpayers, as flood prevention projects generally require public funding. **Current Status** The bill was introduced by Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC) and is currently in committee review, meaning it has not yet been debated or voted on by the full House of Representatives. To learn more about the specific flood prevention measures included, you can search for the bill's text on Congress.gov, where detailed provisions would be available once introduced.
District of Columbia Government Title Equality Act
# District of Columbia Government Title Equality Act Summary **What the Bill Would Do:** This bill would change how the District of Columbia's chief executive is officially titled and referred to in federal law. Instead of being called the "Mayor," the district's leader would receive a different official title. The bill aims to standardize how D.C.'s government leader is referred to across federal documents and laws, addressing what supporters view as a naming inconsistency in how D.C.'s government is recognized at the federal level. **Who It Affects:** The bill directly affects Washington, D.C.'s elected leader and how federal law recognizes D.C.'s local government structure. It would also impact any federal agencies, documents, and regulations that reference D.C.'s chief executive by title. **Current Status:** The bill has been introduced in the House of Representatives but remains in committee, meaning it has not yet been voted on by the full House. The bill was sponsored by Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton, D.C.'s non-voting representative in Congress. Without additional information about the proposed new title, the specific reasoning behind the change is unclear from these basic details alone.
Federal Government Advertising Equity Accountability Act
# Federal Government Advertising Equity Accountability Act (HR 5805) - Summary **What the Bill Would Do:** The Federal Government Advertising Equity Accountability Act would establish requirements for how federal agencies spend their advertising budgets. While the bill's full details aren't publicly specified in available summaries, bills with this title typically aim to ensure that government advertising contracts are distributed equitably across different types of media outlets and advertising platforms, potentially with a focus on historically underrepresented or minority-owned media companies. **Who It Affects:** This bill would primarily affect federal agencies that purchase advertising, as well as media companies and advertising platforms that bid for government contracts. It could influence where taxpayer advertising dollars are spent and potentially create new opportunities for smaller or minority-owned media businesses to compete for federal advertising work. **Current Status:** HR 5805 is currently in committee, meaning it has been introduced but has not yet advanced to a full vote in the House of Representatives. The bill was sponsored by Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton, a Democrat representing Washington, D.C. *Note: More detailed information about specific provisions would require access to the full bill text, which may be available on Congress.gov.*
Government Accountability Office District of Columbia Home Rule Act
# Summary: Government Accountability Office District of Columbia Home Rule Act (HR 5754) **What the Bill Would Do:** This bill would amend the District of Columbia Home Rule Act to give the Government Accountability Office (GAO)—Congress's watchdog agency that audits federal spending—new oversight powers related to D.C. government finances. The specific provisions aren't detailed in the available information, but the bill appears intended to strengthen federal financial oversight of the District's budget and operations. **Who It Affects:** The bill primarily affects Washington, D.C. residents and their local government, as well as Congress and federal agencies. D.C. has a unique legal status—it functions as both a city and federal district—which gives Congress special authority over its finances and governance that most other cities don't face. **Current Status:** As of now, the bill remains in committee and has not advanced to a full House vote. It was introduced by D.C.'s non-voting representative, Eleanor Holmes Norton, a Democrat. Without more detailed legislative text available, the exact nature and scope of the GAO's expanded powers cannot be fully explained.
To provide for interim appropriations for the National Capital Planning Commission and the Commission of Fine Arts with respect to any fiscal year for which appropriations are not otherwise provided for the commissions.
# HR 5719 Summary **What the Bill Does:** This bill would automatically provide temporary funding to two Washington D.C.-based commissions—the National Capital Planning Commission and the Commission of Fine Arts—if Congress fails to pass a regular budget by the start of a new fiscal year. Rather than having these agencies shut down during a budget lapse, they would continue operating at the same funding level and under the same conditions as the previous year. **Who It Affects:** The bill primarily affects these two commissions, which oversee planning and architectural design standards in the nation's capital. It would also indirectly benefit Washington D.C. residents and visitors by ensuring these agencies can continue their work during budget standoffs. The bill is sponsored by D.C.'s delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton. **Current Status:** The bill is currently in committee and has not yet been voted on by the full House. It has not advanced to become law.
District of Columbia Clemency Home Rule Act
# District of Columbia Clemency Home Rule Act (HR 5698) - Summary **What the Bill Would Do:** This bill would give the District of Columbia the authority to grant clemency (pardons and sentence commutations) to people convicted of crimes in DC's local court system. Currently, only the President can grant federal pardons, and DC's local government lacks independent clemency powers that most U.S. states possess. This bill would allow DC to establish its own clemency process for local (non-federal) crimes. **Who It Affects:** The bill primarily affects DC residents convicted of local crimes and the District's government. It relates to the broader question of DC's self-governance, since states typically have the power to grant clemency but DC, as a federal territory rather than a state, does not. The change would not affect federal crimes or federal prisoners. **Current Status:** The bill is currently in committee and has not yet advanced for a full House vote. It was introduced by DC's non-voting representative, Eleanor Holmes Norton (D), who regularly sponsors legislation aimed at expanding DC's autonomy. The bill has not been enacted into law.
To provide for interim appropriations for the District of Columbia courts and related agencies with respect to any fiscal year for which appropriations are not otherwise provided for such courts and agencies.
# HR 5654 Summary **What the Bill Does** This bill would protect Washington, D.C.'s court system and related agencies from shutting down if Congress fails to pass a regular budget. Specifically, it would allow the D.C. courts, public defender services, probation/supervision agencies, and judicial oversight bodies to continue operating and paying employees during a federal government shutdown by automatically continuing their previous year's funding levels. **Who It Affects** The bill primarily affects the District of Columbia's judicial system, including judges, court staff, public defenders, and probation officers. It also indirectly affects D.C. residents and anyone with cases in these courts, as it ensures the courts remain functional during budget disputes. **Current Status** HR 5654 is currently in committee and has not yet been voted on by the full House. It was introduced by D.C.'s non-voting representative, Eleanor Holmes Norton (Democrat).
Universal Prekindergarten and Early Childhood Education Act of 2025
# Universal Prekindergarten and Early Childhood Education Act of 2025 - Summary **What the Bill Would Do** This bill would establish a federal program to provide universal pre-kindergarten and early childhood education services to eligible children. While specific details aren't available in this summary, such bills typically aim to make pre-K programs more accessible and affordable for families, potentially by providing federal funding to states or creating new educational standards for early childhood programs. The bill would likely affect how pre-K is funded, accessed, and delivered across the country. **Who It Affects** This legislation would primarily impact young children and their families by potentially expanding access to pre-K education. It would also affect states, schools, and early education providers who would implement the program, as well as taxpayers who would fund it through federal appropriations. **Current Status** The bill is currently in committee (HR 5524 in the 119th Congress), meaning it has been introduced but has not yet advanced to a full vote in the House of Representatives. The bill was sponsored by Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton, a Democrat representing Washington D.C. *Note: For more detailed information about specific provisions, funding amounts, or eligibility requirements, you would need to review the full bill text on Congress.gov.*