Hawaii House Bill HCR198

Hawaii 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/10/23
• Refer: 3/15/23

Caption

Supporting The Admission Of Washington, D.c., Into The Union As A State Of The United States Of America.

Impact

The resolution underscores that D.C. has a population comparable to several states but lacks comparable voting representation. The document calls attention to the significant federal taxes paid by D.C. residents, even more than those in some states, without the voice in Congress that would accompany statehood. The resolution suggests that admission into the Union would correct these disparities and would empower the residents of D.C. to engage fully in the American democratic process.

Summary

House Concurrent Resolution 198 expresses support for the admission of Washington, D.C. as a state in the United States. The resolution outlines the historical context, noting that the citizens of D.C. were granted the right to vote for congressional representation in the late 18th century. However, subsequent legislation such as the Organic Act of 1801 revoked that right, leading to a situation where residents have faced limitations on their democratic rights despite carrying the same responsibilities as citizens in the states, such as paying taxes and serving in the military.

Contention

Notably, the bill emphasizes the push for statehood backed by a substantial majority from D.C. residents, citing an 86% approval rate from a referendum on statehood in 2016. The resolution also references the international community's criticism of the U.S. for disenfranchising the residents of its capital, framing the lack of statehood as a violation of democratic norms. The discussion surrounding the bill highlights the tension between federal oversight and local autonomy, a key point of debate in ongoing discussions about the status of D.C.