Opening Worker-Ownership: A New Economic Resilience Strategy (OWNERS) Amendment Act of 2025
Impact
The bill is expected to have a substantial impact on the state's laws by fostering a framework that encourages the transition of businesses into cooperatives owned and managed by their employees. Such a shift could significantly change the economic landscape in the District, promoting more stable and resilient business models that support local economies. By recognizing and institutionalizing cooperative ownership, the law can improve the sustainability of businesses that are at risk of closure, thus potentially reducing unemployment and lifting community wealth.
Summary
B26-0107, titled the 'Opening Worker-Ownership: A New Economic Resilience Strategy (OWNERS) Amendment Act of 2025', proposes amendments to the District of Columbia Consumer Protection Procedures Act. The bill mandates the Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP) to establish a program that surveys the local business ecosystem. This initiative aims to develop strategies that facilitate business owners, especially small local businesses, to retire or close their businesses by selling them to their employees through worker cooperative conversions. This approach seeks to not only preserve jobs but also enhance community engagement in local economic activities.
Contention
However, notable concerns have been raised regarding the implementation of this bill. Critics argue that while the intent of supporting local businesses is commendable, the logistical challenges of transitioning to a cooperative model could be substantial. There are also fears that the bill might overreach by compelling certain business models over traditional ownership frameworks, which could meet resistance from business owners who prefer conventional sales routes or are unfamiliar with cooperative structures. Furthermore, questions about the adequacy of resources and support from the DLCP for executing such transitions have also been highlighted in discussions surrounding the bill.