Political Quotes

“the outright repeal of the District's residency law in this bill is an abuse of congressional power that even Congress has been reluctant to do. This repeal would mark only the fourth time that a District law has been overturned in 24 years of home rule. Despite the fact that this residency law does not threaten the job of a single suburban worker employed by the District Government, regional Members have placed the repeal in the D.C. appropriation bill. The residency bill applies prospectively to new hires only, and even then a suburban worker could be hired so long as he or she moves to the city within 6 months. The strongest reason against a residency law has been eliminated by the requirements in the law itself. Residency may be waived for hard-to-fill positions. In the District today this could range from modestly paid 911 operators, where problems of competence and sick leave have been found, to technology talent that may be in short supply. To assure work force quality, waivers could be exercised for entire units, even agencies. Mr. Chairman, the residency repeal in this bill is selfish special interest legislation, pure and simple. The repeal is opposed by the Control Board for financial reasons. The residency law would strengthen the District's economy because city employees would pay city taxes, spend most of their disposable income within the city, and improve their own neighborhoods.”