Lawmakers in Washington, D.C. swiftly passed an expansive anti-crime bill in response to concerns voiced by business leaders about a surge in violent crime within the city.
The Secure D.C. Omnibus Amendment Act of 2024, comprising over 100 measures to combat crime, such as toughening penalties for gun violence and addressing organized retail theft, secured approval from the D.C. Council in a 12-1 vote.
Mayor Muriel Bowser lauded Councilmember Brooke Pinto and fellow members for their efforts in advancing the crime bill, emphasizing the importance of bolstering public safety and accountability.
In her statement, Bowser underscored the community’s demand for action and stressed the city’s commitment to creating opportunity while maintaining zero tolerance for violence and criminal activities disrupting safety and neighborhood development.
Councilmember Pinto echoed Bowser’s sentiments, portraying the passage of the Secure DC legislation as a united effort to enhance public safety, prevent crime, ensure accountability, and streamline government coordination and response.
The legislation reflects the city’s resolve to effectuate lasting improvements in safety and law enforcement.
Amid escalating crime rates, Bowser highlighted a decrease in homicides and violent crimes in 2024 compared to the previous year. Nevertheless, she emphasized the ongoing need to combat crime and reiterated the city’s stance against allowing criminal elements to prevail in neighborhoods.
Last week, over 70 business groups, including prominent entities like the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and National Retail Federation, implored Bowser and lawmakers to address the alarming rise in crime, which jeopardizes community safety and economic prosperity.
The letter underscored Washington, D.C.’s divergence from national crime trends and called for immediate action to curb violence, particularly targeting organized and repeat offenders.
The Secure D.C. Omnibus Amendment Act of 2024 aims to address various facets of crime prevention and response, including the extension of statutes of limitations for serious crimes, the extradition of misdemeanor arrest warrants, and the admissibility of GPS records to establish guilt in legal proceedings.
Additionally, the legislation seeks to enhance protections for vulnerable populations, such as seniors, children, and victims of sexual and domestic violence, underscoring a multifaceted approach to bolstering public safety.