Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the District of Columbia’s budget calendar and participation opportunities are different than in previous years. Because of pressures from protest and a groundswell of #DefundPolice testimony — the Committee on Judiciary and Public Safety reported 16,000 pieces submitted — DC has an unprecedented opportunity to shift budget priorities this year. This week’s “Community thru Covid” provides a review of the DC FY21 budget schedule, where we are now, and some background on recommended cuts as well as the call to increase revenue.

Tune in, 11 – 11:30 Eastern, on We Act Radio to prepare for the next stage of the budget cycle — in which the DC Council has the opportunity to #DefundMPD. Recording available shortly after air-time.

Budget Oversight hearings for the Committee of the Whole take place later today, June 17, 12-6 p.m., and June 18, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
– Local Budget Act
– Federal Portion Budget Request Act
– Budget Support Act
– FY2020 Revised Local Budget Emergency Adjustment Act

Watch:
– Council site
– OCTFME site
– On TV, Ch 13

The movement to #DefundMPD has resulted in calls to immediately reduce the MPD budget by $79 million and the portion of the education budget which funds police in schools by $23 million. Learn more at Fair Budget Coalition and these DC Fiscal Policy Institute pages

How Divesting from Police Can Strengthen the District

Put Revenue on the Table

Here is the Fair Budget Coalition petition.

Juneteenth Week of Action Defund Toolkit

DCFPI budget toolkit