Make sure your councilmember knows they should support DC renters and protect TOPA! You can find their contact information here: dccouncil.gov/councilmembe...

Unfortunately, some CMs are also trying to strip TOPA rights from even more DC residents. @anitabondsdc.bsky.social introduced an amendment to take TOPA rights from every renter in a 2-4 unit building, which would have a devastating impact on the effectiveness of the program.

There are a flood of amendments coming from various CMs. The key amendment, from @chmnmendelson.bsky.social, @cmlewisgeorgew4.bsky.social, @brianneknadeau.bsky.social would improve the bill significantly by taking out a harmful TOPA exemption and adding in additional protections for tenants.

The RENTAL Act is a bill up for a second vote in front of the @councilofdc.bsky.social today, and in the bill’s current form, it would speed up evictions and take away TOPA rights from thousands of renters.

The Tenant Opportunity to Purchase Act is a DC law that allows tenants a say when their building is for sale. They can negotiate to buy the building, improve conditions, & add affordability. TOPA is a national model for keeping buildings affordable & creating tenant power.

Simply comparing top tax rates doesn’t provide an accurate picture of how DC compares to other areas. In fact, it’s misleading given that statutory rates don't reflect all the adjustments & provisions made to the tax base, such as tax deductions, credits, and other preferences.