Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Although the United States Constitution gives Congress exclusive legislative authority over the Federal District, in 1973 we granted the District of Columbia some significant autonomy by approving the Home Rule Act. Congress still must act, however, before the city can pursue certain activities. This brings us to the legislation before us today. Mr. Speaker, H.R. 2297 is needed to update zoning laws to allow the District the flexibility to lease or sell real property on the Southwest waterfront to a private-sector developer. There is currently a $2 billion redevelopment plan pending to renovate this area, which is only a short distance from the United States Capitol building. We hope this redevelopment plan will accomplish its goal of spurring economic development and bringing jobs to the city of Washington, D.C. This legislation was approved by the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform by a voice vote. I again would like to thank my colleague, Ms. Holmes Norton from the District of Columbia, and Ranking Member Cummings for working with us on this legislation. I reserve the balance of my time. {time} 1350”