Highlights from the May 1 DCR

The Special Committee on Statehood and Self-Determination (Michael A. Brown, chair) is holding a public hearing on May 13 at 1:00 pm in Room 412 of the JAWB.   The subject of the hearing is “The History of the District of Columbia and its impact on the Attainment of Voting Rights and Statehood.”   Two hearing will feature short documentaries, DC historians and area public school students.   The witness list is closed but residents are encouraged to submit written statements.   Details here.

The Committee on Libraries, Parks and Recreation (Harry Thomas, chair) is holding a public oversight roundtable on “2009 Summer Readiness for the Department of Parks and Recreation.”   The roundtable is being held on May 11 at 10:00 am the Council Chamber in the JAWB.   The public is encouraged to testify; those not able to comment publicly may submit a written statement.   Details here.

The City Council is considering a reprogramming request (Reprogramming 18-15) of the Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE) of $6.5 million.   The reprogramming will align PS budget authority and fully fund contracts associated with special education.   Unless a CM files a notice of disapproval, the reprogramming will become effective on the 15th day after the receipt by the council.   The 14 day review began April 23.

The Office of Contracting and Procurement (OCP) has issued final rules in the May 1, 2009 edition of the DC Register about the requirement for local and federal criminal background checks and local a traffic check for private agencies contracting with the DC government which work with children and youth.   The rules are now in effect.   The rules are required by DC Law 15-353, “Child and Youth Safety and Health Omnibus Amendment Act of 2004.”