Fenty wants anti-crime bill moved as emergency

Today Mayor Fenty announced he is seeking emergency passage of the omnibus anti-crime bill on an emergency basis.   The permanent is B18-0138, "Omnibus Anti-Crime Amendment Act of 2009."   The omnibus contains new provisions that would expand individual prohibitions about carrying a firearm, deter youth gang involvement and make illegal the possession of a gun while in a vehicle.   The mayor believes that these changes are essential to maintain public safety.

The Committee on Public Safety and the Judiciary, chaired by At-large CM Phil Mendelson, held a public hearing on the bill on March 18; watch the hearing here on the OCT Web site (the hearing actually starts at minute 6:20).   There were more than 45 witnesses who registered to testify.   CMs Mendelson, Evans and Graham delivered opening remarks (minutes 6:20, 10:30 and 15:10, respectively).

According to CMs Evans and Mendelson, Council Chair Vincent Gray and CMs Mary Cheh, Jack Evans, and Phil Mendelson agreed that the committee would mark-up the bill in June so that there could be two votes by the time the council went out for summer recess in mid-July.   The legislation would become effective some time in the fall, depending on the Congressional calendar.

The committee will hold another hearing on the bill on May 18 at 10:30 in the Council Chamber (Room 500).   This hearing is by invitation only and is designed to delve more deeply into a limited number of issues raised in previous hearings and constituent communications.

Susie's commentary:   Mayor Fenty apparently wants this legislation implemented immediately, presumably in time for summer.