Missouri House Bill HCR78

Missouri 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/1/22
• Refer: 5/13/22

Caption

Urges Congress to admit Washington, D.C. to the union

Impact

If HCR78 is passed, it could significantly alter the political landscape of the United States by granting D.C. statehood. This change would allow the residents of D.C. to elect representatives to Congress, giving them a voice in federal legislation which they currently lack. Additionally, it could influence the balance of power in Congress, as the Democratic Party is likely to benefit from the addition of two senators and a voting representative from D.C., thereby changing the dynamics of legislative decision-making.

Summary

HCR78 is a resolution that advocates for the admission of Washington, D.C. as the 51st state of the United States. This resolution highlights the lack of congressional representation for the residents of Washington, D.C., who, despite being American citizens, do not have voting representation in Congress. The resolution seeks to address the longstanding issue of disenfranchisement faced by D.C. residents and promotes the ideals of democracy and equal representation.

Contention

There are notable points of contention surrounding HCR78. Critics argue that the admission of Washington, D.C. as a state could lead to political polarization and may be viewed as a partisan measure aimed at increasing Democratic power. Opponents also raise constitutional concerns about the nature of D.C. as a federal district, questioning whether it should be transformed into a state at all. Meanwhile, supporters emphasize the importance of democratic principles and the need to rectify the inequity of representation for the citizens of D.C.