District of ColumbiaB26-0542Council Period 26 (2025-2026)HouseWALLET

Powering Local Utility Guidance in Housing Act of 2025

Sponsored By: Robert C. White Jr. (Democratic)

Became Law

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 1 mixed.

Shared utility permit updates for developers

The law applies once its fiscal effect is included in an approved budget and financial plan. Within 60 days after that date, DC’s housing, buildings, and technology agencies must sign coordination and data-sharing agreements with utility providers. These agreements must give utility design consultants access and priority needed to do their work. Residential developers must be able to see timely utility inspection and review updates in a central permit database. The housing department must consult residential building industry groups each year and update the agreements as needed.

Utility help for affordable housing developers

The law requires DC’s housing department to offer utility design consultants and permit liaisons for qualifying affordable housing construction or repairs. Liaisons help coordinate utility disconnections, inspections, fixes, and communication with utility providers. Developers must submit proof of District or federal funding requiring income-restricted homes for at least 15 years. Alternatively, they can submit a sworn statement that they intend to apply for that funding. A third option is a recorded property agreement requiring more income-restricted homes than DC’s Inclusionary Zoning program requires. The Mayor can set deeper affordability requirements through rules. Developers use the help at their own risk; consultant advice cannot override a utility provider’s decision. The District and consultants cannot be held liable solely for failing to explain the service limits. These requirements apply once the law’s fiscal effect is included in an approved budget and financial plan.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Robert C. White Jr.
Democratic • House

Cosponsors

There are no cosponsors for this bill.

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 26 • No: 0

House vote • 6/2/2026

Final Reading, CC

Yes: 13 • No: 0

House vote • 5/5/2026

First Reading, CC