Bill > B26-0553

This bill significantly expands the authority of the D.C. State Board of Education (SBOE) by granting it enhanced powers to request and require policy actions and data from DC government entities. Specifically, the bill allows the SBOE to require government entities to respond to policy requests within 90 days, detailing whether they will commence the requested action within six months. If a government entity fails to respond or declines the request, the SBOE can adopt a resolution—approved by a two-thirds supermajority—mandating the entity initiate the policy within six months. The bill also empowers the SBOE to request education-related data, with the ability to compel submission through a supermajority resolution if the data is not provided within 15 business days. Furthermore, the legislation stipulates that government entities must give "great weight" to SBOE recommendations, requiring written decisions that explicitly acknowledge and address each issue raised by the Board, and provide a detailed rationale for their stance. The bill was approved by the SBOE on December 17, 2025, and will take effect after mayoral approval, congressional review, and publication in the District of Columbia Register.

https://lims.dccouncil.gov/Legislation/B26-0553