Common-Sense Law Enforcement and Accountability Now in DC Act of 2025
Summary
The "Common-Sense Law Enforcement and Accountability Now in DC Act of 2025" (CLEAN DC Act of 2025) aims to repeal the Comprehensive Policing and Justice Reform Amendment Act of 2022 enacted by the District of Columbia Council. The Act seeks to restore the legal landscape to its state before the 2022 amendment. However, it includes exceptions, specifically maintaining certain subtitles related to law enforcement within the D.C. Official Code.
Expected Effects
The primary effect is the reversal of policing and justice reforms implemented in D.C. by the 2022 Act. This could lead to changes in law enforcement practices, potentially impacting community relations and public safety. Certain provisions of the 2022 Act, however, will remain in effect.
Potential Benefits
- Potentially improved law enforcement effectiveness if the repealed reforms were hindering crime reduction.
- Could lead to increased officer morale if the repealed reforms were perceived as overly restrictive.
- May restore legal clarity by reverting to established policing procedures.
- Could address unintended consequences of the 2022 reforms.
- May align DC's policing practices more closely with national standards.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Could reverse progress made in police accountability and community trust if the repealed reforms were beneficial.
- May disproportionately affect minority communities if the repealed reforms addressed systemic biases.
- Could lead to increased instances of police misconduct if accountability measures are weakened.
- May undermine local control and the will of the D.C. Council.
- Could create legal uncertainty during the transition period.
Constitutional Alignment
The act raises questions about federal overreach into local governance, potentially conflicting with principles of federalism implied in the Tenth Amendment, which reserves powers not delegated to the federal government to the states or the people. However, Congress has constitutional authority over the District of Columbia, as outlined in Article I, Section 8, Clause 17, granting it the power to "exercise exclusive Legislation in all Cases whatsoever, over such District."
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).