Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress House Bill HB4688

Introduced
7/17/23  
Refer
7/17/23  
Refer
7/18/23  
Report Pass
7/27/23  
Engrossed
12/5/23  

Caption

To direct the Administrator of General Services to sell the property known as the Webster School.

Impact

The passage of HB 4688 is expected to have a noteworthy impact on state laws surrounding property management and federal real estate transactions. By requiring the sale of the Webster School, the bill underscores the government's commitment to managing its property portfolio effectively. Any proceeds from this sale will be deposited into the Federal Buildings Fund and may only be expended subject to a specific future appropriation, ensuring that funds will be utilized for purposes authorized by Congress, potentially aligned with public interests.

Summary

House Bill 4688 is a legislative proposal that directs the Administrator of General Services to sell a specific piece of property known as the Webster School, located in Washington, D.C. The bill mandates that the sale must occur by December 31, 2025, and the property should be sold at fair market value for its highest and best use. This directive aims to optimize the value of government-held assets while also making room for potential new developments that could benefit the community and local economy.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 4688 appears to be generally supportive among legislators who prioritize effective property management and return on government assets. However, there could be concerns regarding the fate of the Webster School property, particularly among local residents and historical preservation advocates who might worry about the loss of a community landmark. The response reflects a balance between fiscal responsibility and community heritage.

Contention

While the bill is straightforward in its intent, it could face contention regarding the specifics of what constitutes the 'highest and best use' of the property. Stakeholders may have differing opinions on how the sale should prioritize community needs versus economic returns. Additionally, discussions may arise around the potential implications for the local community, particularly if the property's new development changes the character or accessibility of the neighborhood.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

US HB878

To direct the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration to appoint an Associate Administrator for Aviation Safety Technology, and for other purposes.

US HB4664

Financial Services and General Government Appropriations Act, 2024 District of Columbia Appropriations Act, 2024 Department of the Treasury Appropriations Act, 2024 Judiciary Appropriations Act, 2024 Executive Office of the President Appropriations Act, 2024

US HB51

Washington, D.C. Admission Act This bill provides for the admission of the state of Washington, Douglass Commonwealth into the United States. The commonwealth consists of all the territory of the District of Columbia (DC), excluding certain federal property. The excluded property shall be known as the Capital and serve as the seat of federal government; it includes the principal federal monuments, the White House, the Capitol Building, the Supreme Court Building, and the federal office buildings located adjacent to the Mall and Capitol Building. In addition, the bill maintains the federal government's authority over military lands and specified other property and prohibits the commonwealth from taxing federal property except as permitted by Congress. Within 30 days of this bill's enactment, the DC mayor must call for the election of two Senators and one Representative for the commonwealth. The commonwealth shall be admitted into the United States upon a presidential proclamation announcing the results of that election. The bill applies current DC laws to the commonwealth and continues pending judicial proceedings. It also continues certain federal authorities and responsibilities, including regarding employee benefits, agencies, and courts, until the commonwealth certifies that it is prepared to take over those authorities and responsibilities. Further, the bill provides for expedited consideration of a joint resolution to repeal the Twenty-third Amendment to the Constitution (which allows DC citizens to vote in presidential elections). The bill also establishes a commission to advise the President, Congress, and DC and commonwealth leaders on the transition.

US HB2115

To provide for a limitation on availability of funds for Independent Agencies, General Services Administration, Real Property Activities, Federal Building Fund for fiscal year 2024.

US HB3616

To direct the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration to include medications and medical equipment for the emergency treatment of known or suspected opioid overdose in aircraft emergency medical kits, and for other purposes.

US HB9591

To require the Administrator of General Services to sell certain property related to United States Penitentiary, Leavenworth, and for other purposes.

US SB51

Washington, D.C. Admission Act This bill provides for the admission of the state of Washington, Douglass Commonwealth into the United States. The commonwealth consists of all the territory of the District of Columbia (DC), excluding certain federal property. The excluded property shall be known as the Capital and serve as the seat of federal government; it includes the principal federal monuments, the White House, the Capitol Building, the Supreme Court Building, and the federal office buildings located adjacent to the Mall and Capitol Building. In addition, the bill maintains the federal government's authority over military lands and specified other property and prohibits the commonwealth from taxing federal property except as permitted by Congress. Within 30 days of this bill's enactment, the DC mayor must call for the election of two Senators and one Representative for the commonwealth. The commonwealth shall be admitted into the United States upon a presidential proclamation announcing the results of that election. The bill applies current DC laws to the commonwealth and continues pending judicial proceedings. It also continues certain federal authorities and responsibilities, including regarding employee benefits, agencies, and courts, until the commonwealth certifies that it is prepared to take over those authorities and responsibilities. Further, the bill provides for expedited consideration of a joint resolution to repeal the Twenty-third Amendment to the Constitution (which allows DC citizens to vote in presidential elections). The bill also establishes a commission to advise the President, Congress, and DC and commonwealth leaders on the transition.

US HB3618

Safer Schools Act of 2023

US HB3738

Veterans Economic Opportunity and Transition Administration Act

US HB25

FairTax Act of 2023 This bill imposes a national sales tax on the use or consumption in the United States of taxable property or services in lieu of the current income taxes, payroll taxes, and estate and gift taxes. The rate of the sales tax will be 23% in 2025, with adjustments to the rate in subsequent years. There are exemptions from the tax for used and intangible property; for property or services purchased for business, export, or investment purposes; and for state government functions. Under the bill, family members who are lawful U.S. residents receive a monthly sales tax rebate (Family Consumption Allowance) based upon criteria related to family size and poverty guidelines. The states have the responsibility for administering, collecting, and remitting the sales tax to the Treasury. Tax revenues are to be allocated among (1) the general revenue, (2) the old-age and survivors insurance trust fund, (3) the disability insurance trust fund, (4) the hospital insurance trust fund, and (5) the federal supplementary medical insurance trust fund. No funding is authorized for the operations of the Internal Revenue Service after FY2027. Finally, the bill terminates the national sales tax if the Sixteenth Amendment to the Constitution (authorizing an income tax) is not repealed within seven years after the enactment of this bill.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.