Norton Calls Disapproval Resolution on D.C. Insurance Regulation Amendment Act a ‘Fumbled Attempted Attack’ on Home Rule

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC) said a disapproval resolution introduced by Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) on D.C.'s Insurance Regulation Amendment Act of 2024 would have no legal effect, even if enacted, because the congressional review period outlined in the Home Rule Act (HRA) has already expired.

"There is never justification for Congress overturning laws enacted by D.C., but Rep. Smith's disapproval resolution comes too late to be effective, even if passed by Congress, since the congressional review period under the Home Rule Act has already expired," Norton said. "Moreover, Rep. Smith was elected to serve the interests of his constituents in New Jersey, who stand to gain nothing from this fumbled attempted attack on D.C. home rule."

Local D.C. legislation must be transmitted to Congress for a designated review period. If the disapproval resolution is enacted, it overturns the local D.C. law. D.C.'s Mayor Muriel Bowser signed the Insurance Regulation Amendment Act of 2024 into law on January 15.

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