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Dear Neighbors,
I often say, “There is never a dull day in the District of Columbia,” and the last two weeks have proven that even more so. Take my Friday, for example – I started the morning at the Cade Foundation Policy & Law Summit speaking about DC’s efforts to expand access to infertility treatment and diagnosis. During lunch, I met with a group at the Women’s National Democratic Club to talk about what’s emerging in the public health space in DC and across the country. And then in a wild but special turn of events, I ended up officiating a civil wedding ceremony back at the Wilson Building for a couple who was able to get their marriage license during the federal government shutdown thanks to my emergency legislation. That was such an amazing way to end a roller coaster week!
As you know, last week, Congress voted to end the federal government shutdown. They agreed to yet another Continuing Resolution (“CR”) which will fund much of the government until January 30, 2026. Key for the District’s finances – the CR included language that allows for DC to continue spending its local dollars at the approved Fiscal Year 2026 levels. Congress also approved the federal appropriations bills for Agriculture and the Food and Drug Administration. This means that funding for nutrition programs like SNAP and WIC have their full year of funding approved, so should there be more congressional gridlock leading to a shutdown in January/February, these programs will not be impacted or become a political bargaining chip.
In more budget news, on Tuesday, November 4, the Council voted on emergency legislation to “decouple” parts of DC’s local tax code from the federal tax code. The federal One Big Beautiful Bill Act (“OBBBA”) not only cut federal spending, but also made several changes to the federal tax code impacting revenue collection for not only the feds, but states and local governments too. Because parts of DC’s tax code were linked to the federal tax code, changes in OBBBA would have resulted in local revenue losses of approximately $123.2 million in Fiscal Year 2025, $224.1 million in Fiscal Year 2026, and $820.5 million over the financial plan. To prevent such HUGE revenue shortfalls, the Council had to act, through emergency legislation, to separate parts of the local tax code from the federal tax code.
While I was in favor of “decoupling” our tax code from the federal tax code, on an emergency basis, I was not supportive of the amendments to the emergency measure that proposed funding new or expanding existing tax benefits, such as a local child tax credit. I know that seems at odds on where I normally would be on this issue. To be clear, I co-introduced the original child tax credit legislation in 2023. I voted to expand the local Earned Income Tax Credit in 2021. These programs are important and meaningful, but I also think doing tax policy on an emergency basis with no hearing, public consideration, or debate can be reckless.
Emergency legislation is intended to address emergent, critical situations that require a time-sensitive legislative response. Unfortunately, it has devolved into somewhat of the default of how the Council legislates these days. Just take a look at the numbers – as of the beginning of November, the Council has acted on an emergency basis 113 times. In contrast, the number of permanent bills that have become law: 23. I do believe that decoupling the tax code to prevent significant revenue losses meets the threshold of an emergency, but there was time to consider other tax benefits through regular order. Talking about process is never a sexy or popular point, but I will say this – when it comes to governing, process protects the voices of the minority. Process protects the integrity of the majority. And process protects the institution. As budgets get tighter, I hope you all will hold us more accountable in this regard.
We are piloting releasing our newsletter on Monday, instead of Friday. Still jammed packed full of information and updates. Keep reading…
In Service,
Christina Henderson
Councilmember, At-Large
ChristinaHendersonDC.com
On Wednesday, November 5, the Committee on Health held an oversight roundtable on the Department of Behavioral Health’s (DBH) Comprehensive Plan for future of the School-Based Behavioral Health (SBBH) Program. Councilmember Henderson heard from school staff, behavioral health providers, advocates, and DBH officials about ongoing implementation challenges, including staffing shortages, inconsistent coordination with schools, and lack of real-time data. Witness testimony highlighted concerns about how the program supports students with higher levels of need and called for more transparency and accountability. The roundtable brought attention to gaps in oversight, raised questions about DBH’s ability to meet program goals, and highlighted concerns about the agency’s commitment to authentic stakeholder engagement.
On Thursday, November 6, the Committee on Human Services and the Committee on Health held a joint roundtable on Behavioral Health Supports in Local Housing Voucher Programs. Councilmembers, housing providers, and advocates raised concerns about communication gaps between the Department of Human Services (DHS), the Department of Behavioral Health (DBH), and Permanent Supportive Housing (PSH) participants, landlords, and property managers. Participants emphasized the lack of options for Transition-Age Youth (TAYs), the need to deliver intensive services with fidelity, and the importance of protecting children and other vulnerable residents. Housing providers highlighted persistent challenges with managing disruptive residents, noting that prolonged eviction processes can destabilize entire communities. Key priorities going forward were identified as: stronger collaboration, regular case manager engagement, more robust training for housing providers, and practical strategies for resolving conflicts while preserving affordable housing access.
Councilmember Henderson and Councilmember Matt Frumin receive public witness testimony during their joint roundtable on Behavioral Health Supports in Local Housing Voucher Programs.
On Monday, November 10, the Committee of the Whole held a public hearing on the Education Reports Simplification Amendment Act of 2025, introduced by Councilmember Henderson, and the Education Code Adjustments Amendment Act of 2025. The bills are intended to reform education reporting requirements and streamline related District laws.
At the hearing, agency stakeholders discussed how this legislation will reduce administrative burden and allow for a more productive use of agency resources. When asked about their current reporting volume, the Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE) testified to having 53 local reporting requirements, with DC Public Schools (DCPS) and the Deputy Mayor for Education (DME) collectively having to submit dozens of reports. Public witnesses from the Technology Advisory Committee expressed concerns regarding the repeal of DCPS’s draft technology plan reporting requirement. In response, DCPS stated that the requirement is duplicative as it serves no substantive purpose for the Council. Additionally, the repeal would allow DCPS to dedicate more time to community engagement and creating a technology plan that incorporates the values and feedback of the committee. To conclude the hearing, Councilmember Henderson committed to continue working to address agency efficiency and to review ways that similar legislation can be drafted to support other government sectors.
Meeting with Students from Archbishop Carroll High School
On Thursday, November 6, Councilmember Henderson was interviewed by students from Archbishop Carroll High School’s Jim Vance Media Program for their entry into the national C-SPAN Student Cam Documentary Competition. The students explored recent events such as the federal presence in the District, community response, and the Home Rule Act.
Touring Mary’s Center
On Friday, November 7, Councilmember Henderson toured Mary’s Center to learn more about the services they offer both at the Georgia Avenue site, as well as their other locations. Services offered include primary care, behavioral health, dental care, and pharmacy services. Afterwards, Councilmember Henderson toured Briya Public Charter School, which is co-located with Mary’s Center, and learned more about the collaborative education programs they provide, including an associate degree in education with a pathway to further education at UDC.
What’s Going on in DC with Sunrise on the Hill
On Tuesday, November 11, Councilmember Henderson joined Sunrise on the Hill with Cory Smith and Hillary Howard. The hosts asked the Councilmember for updates on current news, including the one billion dollars that was cut from DC’s budget, the federal government shutdown, the ACA Tax Credit, and the ongoing federal presence in the District.
Teaching the Babies with Dr. David J. Jones
Last month, Councilmember Henderson joined Dr. David J. Jones on his Teach the Babies podcast to chat about her initial decision to run for DC Council, her daily responsibilities of being a Councilmember in the District, Home Rule and how DC’s lack of autonomy plays into the District’s inability to control the federal presence in our community. You can listen to the episode, here.
How Policy is Impacting Patients at La Clinica del Pueblo
On Wednesday, November 12, Councilmember Henderson and Health Committee staff members toured La Clínica del Pueblo, a Federally Qualified Health Center, to discuss how federal and local health policy changes are affecting the clinic’s patients and operations and to see the development of their in-clinic pharmacy which is slated to open in the new year.
The Cade Foundation Fertility Summit
On Friday, November 14, Councilmember Henderson started the day by participating on the Cade Foundation Fertility Law and policy Summit panel entitled “Lessons Learned - – Policy & Strategy Perspectives.” The panel covered a variety of topics, including the importance of coalition building for state and federal-level advocacy, and how important it is, despite a flurry of national changes for legislators and staff to follow up with agency staff once a bill becomes law, to ensure a smooth implementation. Councilmember Henderson's legislation Expanding Access to Fertility Treatment Amendment Act of 2023 was implemented in January and has become a model for other states and has allowed access to this important health benefit. The Councilmember was joined on the panel by Timothy Clarke (Ferring Fertility), Lynn Goldman (a lawyer specializing in fertility), Alise Powell (RESOLVE, National Infertility Association), and Dr. Gilbert Mottla (Shady Grove Fertility).
"I Do” in the John A.Wilson Building
Finishing her day, Councilmember Henderson was honored to officiate her first wedding in the John A. Wilson building. During the federal government shutdown many couples were unable to wed due to the District Superior Court being federally funded. Councilmember Henderson introduced the Let Our Vows Endure (LOVE) Emergency Amendment Act which gave Mayor Bowser or her designee the power to issue marriage licenses during a government shutdown.
The next day, Saturday, November 15, Councilmember Henderson attended the CADE Gala, a celebration of the 20th anniversary of the Tinina Q. Cade Foundation, at the Embassy of France where she was honored as the Family Building Champion in recognition of the work she and her staff have done to expand access to infertility treatment and diagnosis in the District.
2025 Fall Leaf Collection
The first pass for leaf collection in Section B starts today, Monday, November 17; leaves should be at the tree box or curbside. All sections will receive two weekends’ notice of when to rake their leaves out to the tree box or curb. Find raking tips and more information at dpw.dc.gov/leaf. During leaf season, weekly updates will be provided on DPWs location and where they will be collecting leaves. Stay tuned for the latest schedules, so you can know when crews will be in your neighborhood.
To follow live updates click, here.
Metro Storytime
Join Metro for its first-ever Metro Storytime, a joyful, family-friendly event celebrating the power of storytelling and the importance of public transit in our communities. This event is geared toward families with children ages 5-9. The event takes place Saturday, November 22, from 11:00am to 12:00pm at Metro Center station (607 13th Street Northwest). A live story time, an overview of the rail system, giveaway bags, and snacks will be available.
You can register for the event, here.
My School DC, EdFest
My School DC is the common application and public-school lottery for participating public and public charter schools in the District that serve PK3 – Grade 12. The application for next school year (2026 – 2027) will be available Monday, December 15, 2025.
You can find participating schools, here.
Office of the Attorney General’s (OAG) Mediation Program
The OAG’s Mediation Program can help District tenants who are having heating issues. If a tenant is a District renter, and the landlord is being unresponsive, OAG’s Mediation Program will prioritize these complaints and will contact the responsible party the same day.
You can access the OAG’s tenant resources, here
Apply to Operation Understanding DC (OUDC)
The Operation Understanding DC (OUDC) Social Justice Fellowship is a free, year-long leadership program for high school juniors who care about justice and want to make an impact. This isn’t just another co-curricular program. Over the course of this free, year-long program, fellows:
Applications are open on a rolling basis until the class is filled. Those interested may apply, here.
Brandywine Valley SPCA
Brandywine is currently running a $0 adoption fee to help you get a furry friend into your home. The special runs until November 23, you can find more information on their website, here.
Talent Capital
Talent Capital is a regional initiative housed by the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments that enables the Greater Washington region to plan training and education systems based on real-time labor market dynamics. You can access it, here.
Communal Farm Weekly Veggie Giveaway
DPR Communal Farms are urban Agriculture sites that are organized as communal production farms, managed by DPR staff and community volunteers, with the purpose of providing various ways for community members to receive free food, volunteer, and participate in hands on educational opportunities. From May to November DPR Communal Farms host three Communal Farm Weekly Veggie Giveaways where community members can pick up free veggies, volunteers on the farm, and/or participant in free programming.
Participants must register to attend any giveaway. Participants can register here.
For questions or to receive updates on what is being harvested, volunteer opportunities, pop up giveaways, weekly programs and weather cancellations please email Joshua.singer@dc.gov
Have a constituent service need related to the Health Committee or any of the other agencies in DC Government? Want Councilmember Henderson to come to your community event or meeting? Don’t hesitate to reach out to our Constituent Services Director Ana Berrios-Vazquez during regular business hours (9:00am - 5:30pm) at 202-724-8105, or ABerriosVazquez@dccouncil.gov.