The Board of Trade’s policy team has tracked high-profile elections across D.C., Maryland, and Virginia that help our members and greater business community understand what changes may be coming as policy takes center-stage to start 2025 as chambers open session.
We congratulate the newly elected members of Congress, State Assemblies, and local offices and applaud their commitment to public service and the trust their constituents have placed in them. As the region’s leading non-partisan business organization since 1889, the Board of Trade is dedicated to fostering collaboration on key priorities like transportation, technology, workforce development, and economic sustainability. We look forward to working together to advance initiatives strengthening the Greater Washington region and its business community.
Angela Alsobrooks (D)
U.S. Senator for the State of Maryland
Formerly the County Executive of Prince George’s County.
Virignia – 7th District – U.S. House of Representatives
Represents Orange, Culpepper, Spotsylvania, Green, Madison, Fredericksburg, Caroline, King George, and Stafford counties. Also represents parts of Prince William and Albemarle counties.
The Greater Washington Board of Trade and K&L Gates recently hosted the third installment of its 2024 Election Watch series, bringing together regional business leaders, policymakers, and experts to analyze the evolving political landscape and its potential impact on the business community.
This session panel discussion led by Darrell Conner and Karishma Page of K&L Gates, and our President & CEO, Jack McDougle, provided valuable insights into the priorities, challenges, and opportunities presented by a potential second Trump administration, highlighting key issues such as tariffs, federal workforce dynamics, and education policy.
Shifts in Support and Economic Concerns
The discussion opened with a look at demographic support for candidates, noting a trend where higher-income groups leaned toward Vice President Kamala Harris, while other income brackets showed gains for President-elect Trump. The economy remains a pivotal concern for voters and businesses alike, particularly with budget and funding challenges taking center stage.
Audience members shared perspectives on the inflationary impacts of tariffs, a hallmark of Trump’s first term. The panel highlighted the ongoing debate among economists about the long-term effects of these policies, underscoring the complexity of the issue.
Governance and Policy Execution
One of the standout themes was the potential for a shift in governance dynamics. During Trump’s first term, there was frequent uncertainty over whether policy decisions were driven by the White House or federal agencies. The panel suggested we can expect policy to be tightly controlled by the White House, as evidenced by high-profile appointments like Tom Homan as the incoming administration’s border czar.
The panel also explored the vetting and appointment process for cabinet officials, contrasting the more ad hoc approach of 2016 with a potentially more structured strategy for Trump’s second term.
Attendees raised several pressing policy questions for the panel:
Federal-State Relations: Emphasizing the growing importance of state-level engagement, particularly on issues like K-12 education. Noting some skepticism within Republican communities surrounding federal involvement in education.
Earmarks: Observing that while earmarks represent a small portion of overall spending, there has been little recent discussion about their future.
Executive Orders and Regulation: A second Trump administration could likely issue a wave of executive orders on day one, potentially rolling back pending regulations and leveraging the Congressional Review Act to overturn existing policies.
Business Impacts and Workforce Dynamics
The panel spoke about the broader challenges facing businesses, from geopolitical risks and technological advancements to national security concerns. These factors are placing stress on business operations, with potential implications for federal workforce dynamics.
The panel pointed to the recent history of relocating federal agencies, noting that workforce relocation could remain a contentious issue, swinging with changes in administration.
Higher Education, Immigration, and Geopolitics
Panelists expressed uncertainty about future investments in higher education under a new administration. Immigration policy also remains unclear, though Trump’s “America-first” approach suggests a continued focus on legal immigration reform.
Geopolitical risks were another focal point. The panel discussed how these external factors could influence domestic policies, including presidential immunity and governance. Notably, Trump’s circle of allies has expanded since 2016, suggesting a more organized approach to administration planning.
Closing Thoughts
The session concluded with reflections on the long-term trajectory of U.S. governance and its impact on the business community. Panelists emphasized the need for businesses to stay agile and engaged as geopolitical, technological, and policy dynamics continue to evolve.
Thank you to K&L Gates for sponsoring this three part series that engaged our members and business community across the Greater Washington region.
Regional transportation leaders and agency executives from across Washington, DC, Maryland and Virginia convened at Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library on November 13 for the seventh annual Capital Region Transportation Forum. Co-hosted by the Greater Washington Partnership (the Partnership) and Greater Washington Board of Trade (the Board of Trade). Discussions focused on progress and challenges toward achieving sustainable funding for the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), and transportation opportunities and challenges across the region. The Partnership and the Board of Trade are committed to advancing strategic transportation investments to keep our economy moving. An accessible, inclusive and efficient transportation system is essential to the prosperity of businesses and residents alike.
Partnership CEO Kathy Hollinger opened the forum by outlining priorities from the recently released Blueprint for Regional Mobility 5-Year Refresh. Informed by over 100 stakeholders, this roadmap emphasizes securing sustainable Metro funding, restoring DC as a world-class rail hub and embracing transit-oriented development (TOD).
Randy Clarke, WMATA’s General Manager and CEO, spotlighted Metro’s vital role in the region’s economy, contributing $9.4 billion in economic activity and achieving 43 consecutive months of ridership growth as of October 2024. Clarke emphasized, “Where Metro goes, the region grows,” underscoring the economic implications of a modernized and reliable Metro system. However, he warned that without long-term funding indexed to inflation and upgrades like an updated signaling system, Metro’s ability to continue to serve the region remains at risk.
Charles Allen, COG Board Chair and District of Columbia Councilmember, and Paul Smedberg, WMATA Board Vice-Chair and Principal Director, kicked off the DMVMoves panel by sharing updates on the initiative’s progress. They highlighted key improvements in public safety and customer satisfaction, while emphasizing the imperative for sustainable funding for WMATA and urging business leaders to get involved. The subsequent panel, moderated by Nick Donohue, Principal at Capitol Transportation Consulting ,featured, Board of Trade President and CEO Jack McDougle, and Fairfax County Executive Bryan Hill, two leaders on the DMVMoves initiative. Their discussion centered on the ongoing efforts to modernize the region’s transit system and the importance of collaborative action to address the region’s transportation challenges. Panelists stressed that these issues extend beyond Washington, DC, impacting the entire region and similar coalitions across the country. They called for business leaders to play a more active role in supporting a transit system that serves all residents and fosters long-term economic growth.
We were joined by United States Senator Mark Warner for a keynote presentation. Sen. Warner highlighted the regional benefits of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and highlighted three key priorities to ensure the vibrancy and vitality of our regional economy and future of transit: 1. Come together as a region to emphasize the expertise and efficiency benefits of concentrating federal workers in the region; 2. Accelerate return-to-office in both the public and private sectors; and 3. Continue to grow and expand regional cooperation initiatives.
The final panel, moderated by NBC News Anchor Adam Tuss, gathered regional transportation agency executives to discuss recent progress and collaborations on regional transportation initiatives. The panelists, Virginia Secretary of Transportation W. Sheppard Miller III, Maryland Transportation Secretary Paul Wiedefeld and Director of the District Department of Transportation Sharon Kirshbaum, shared insights on their administrations’ respective visions and regional priorities. Major long-term transportation projects discussed included the Purple Line in Baltimore, the Expansion of Union Station in Washington DC and the construction of The American Legion Memorial, each of which will support the region’s transportation system.
The region’s future depends on bold decisions and sustained collaboration to address evolving challenges. By advancing modernized, innovative transportation solutions, we can ensure a thriving and connected economy for years to come.
Special thanks to our moderator, NBC News 4’s Adam Tuss, and our sponsors—Transurban, HNTB, EXP, Northeast Maglev and WSP—for making this important event possible.
Together, we can shape the future of transportation in our region.
Watch the full recording of the 2024 Capital Region Transportation Forum:
Recently, the Board of Trade hosted the Regional Policy Leadership Series with Maryland State Senator William C. Smith, Jr. (District 20, Montgomery County), Prince George County Council Chair Jolene Ivey, Prince George’s County Chief of Police Chief Malik Aziz, and moderator Melonie Johnson, President and COO of MGM National Harbor.
As influential leaders dedicated to public safety and its vital role in our region’s growth, the panel engaged in a thought-provoking webinar. Their work is crucial to our local business community, as they focused on key policies, priorities, and issues affecting us all. Discussions addressed critical issues such as justice reform, workforce development, community collaboration, and initiatives to support small businesses through community policing and youth intervention programs. Together, they explored long-term sustainable solutions that can create a lasting impact on our communities.
A special thank you to Senator William C. Smith, Jr., Prince George County Council Chair Jolene Ivey, Prince George’s County Chief of Police Chief Malik Aziz, and moderator Melonie Johnson, President and COO, MGM National Harbor, for participating in this insightful and informative webinar! Watch the entire conversation in the YouTube video above.
Tuesday is Election Day in the US! While the presidential election will be at the top of your mind, there are many essential ballot measures, such as state and district elections, where you can vote and make your voice heard. Learn more from the resources below.
CanIVote.org: Managed by the National Association of Secretaries of State, this resource allows voters to check their registration status, find out how to register, and understand the voting requirements in their state. It’s an invaluable tool for ensuring that voters are ready for election day.
Candidate Information
Vote Smart: This non-profit nonpartisan organization supplies information about elections, candidates, and voting records. By promoting informed voting, it empowers citizens to make educated choices at the polls.
U.S. Election Assistance Commission (EAC): The EAC provides resources about federal voting laws, guidelines for conducting elections, and assistance for voters. This site is essential for understanding the broader context of election processes and the support available to ensure fair voting.
Local and federal agencies in D.C. are actively preparing for the 2024 Presidential Election season, anticipating any potential safety concerns the region could face. Below are updates from transportation, government, and business officials regarding the week of the Presidential Election—a crucial period for Downtown D.C. and the Greater Washington area. The Board of Trade is committed to keeping our business community informed and will continue providing timely updates through Inauguration Day.
Key Dates We Will Follow:
Nov. 4-10: Election Week
Jan. 6-10: Election Certification Week in Congress
Jan. 19-21: Inauguration Week
Safety Information
D.C. Government:
D.C. successfully requested that the upcoming election certification on Jan. 6 be considered a National Special Security Event, a classification similarly applied to Inauguration Day by the government.
Mayor Muriel Bowser’s office hosted a media briefing on Oct. 22nd to discuss the city’s preparations for the Election Day security and the rest of the Election season, including the week of the election certification and inauguration at the beginning of next year.
Deputy Mayor Nina Albert also held a stakeholders briefing on Oct. 24th that addressed further ways the city is addressing safety concerns, including sharing that people to sign up for alerts at alertdc.gov to stay up to date with important safety and travel updates regarding election season.
The mayor’s office expressed:
The need for patience as it could take weeks or days for a winner to be declared in the 2024 Presidential Election
Please be careful about misinformation or false information about election security and activities in Downtown D.C., specifically about what is being said on social media.
Stay prepared for a fluid and unpredictable security environment with extremist groups and possible civil unrest.
Capital Police:
The National Park Service (NPS) has instituted a partial closure in Lafayette Park and along the White House sidewalks for public safety in support of preparation and activities associated with the presidential inauguration. Closures will remain in place through February 2025. The northern part of Lafayette Park remains open for visitors and First Amendment activities. This year, work began Oct. 1 to accommodate additional time needed for a safer and more secure environment for construction activities. The Washington Post has also confirmed that Capitol Police is working with the D.C. National Guard to coordinate response needs better ahead of key election and inauguration dates.
DC Board of Elections:
Monica Evans, the executive director of the D.C. Board of Elections, said in a recent Washington Post story thatn“The D.C. Board of Elections added armed security to its office headquarters and mail ballot processing center this year.” For more on the DC Board of Elections work during this election season check out their “checklist” for this November.
Department of Homeland Security:
The Department of Homeland Security has classified the upcoming electoral count, set for January 6, 2025, as a National Special Security Event. This designation grants the traditionally routine post-election event the same heightened security typically reserved for presidential inaugurations and political conventions. The Secret Service, which will oversee security for the count, has confirmed this arrangement.
Learn more about the election security measures being taken by DHS here.
Metropolitan Police Department:
While there has been no indication of any large-scale protests, events, demonstrations, or violent activities, MPD said in the statement to the Board of Trade that it encourages the public to remain vigilant. If you see something, say something. Please report threats and emergencies to 911. Keep your community safe by reporting suspicious activity by calling 202-727-9099, texting 50411, or visiting iwatchdc.org. Additionally, DC government will be in touch with business groups in the next week to schedule routine calls on security. Let me know if you need help being connected with the appropriate people scheduling those meetings.
MWCOG & Emergency Preparedness Council:
These two groups have been working hard to help share the importance of fighting mis-/dis-/mal-information surrounding the election and have been sharing information and strategies with government and business leaders on effective counterstrategiesin the context of the 2024 elections. In 2023, the MWCOG Board approved a resolution calling for continued regional participation in the Electronic Registration Information Center (ERIC), which provides local and state election officials with voter reports to prevent fraud and ensure accuracy. The board continues to encourage full participation by the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia in this resource. COG also convenes a regional Election Officials Technical Committee to coordinate and share information across jurisdictions.
Transportation Information
Election Night Traffic Updates
Vice President Kamala Harris will be having her Election Day headaquaters at Howard University, which has led to traffic reroutes in the area. Below is the map:
Inauguration Day Route Preparations in Downtwon D.C.
Right now, DDOT is planning to repave the Inauguration Day route and this could cause delays as this work continues through parts of Election Season. Below is a look at the Inauguration Day route (labled in red below) that extends from the White House to the U.S. Capitol Building. Pedestrian walking routes are also labled below in green and are vital to know if you will be in the area on Inauguration Day.
Inauguration Day Vehicle Access in Downtwon D.C.
Mayor Bowser met with D.C. Council recently to discuss safety preperation for Inauguration Day. In her presentation, her office included the vehcile access points for Inauguration Day from 2021, highlighting there will likely be a similar concept for Inauguration Day for this election cycle. Below is a look at the limited access drivers will see. The National Park Service has not released road closures yet, but you can check for more as they prepare for Inauguration Day here.
Advice For Downtown Businesses
Sign up to receive real-time alerts from the District on public safety, traffic impacts, and more on election and inauguration updates by visiting alertdc.dc.gov.
ReadyDC has resources to help businesses create emergency plans, protect critical information, and improve your workforce’s personal preparedness efforts. Learn more by visiting ready.dc.gov/business.
Report suspicious activity. If you see something that doesn’t feel right, report it at iwatchdc.org inform a police officer or call 911 if there is an emergency or you are in immediate danger. Also, keep up-to-date on the latest on Inuauguration Day from D.C. Government here.
The Board of Trade held the second part of its 2024 Election Watch series at the Downtown D.C. office of our series sponsor K&L Gates to engage members on how the 2024 Presidential Election could impact the Greater Washington region. It came only a couple weeks after the debate between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump.
A wide range of critical topics were discussed, reflecting the complex intersection of current political, economic, and social challenges. Attendees expressed interest in key areas such as tax policy, higher education, workforce development, and the uncertainty surrounding regulations.
Tax Policy was a central focus, with a noted emphasis on the expiration of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act in 2025. The looming cost of extending these cuts, estimated at $4.6-$8 trillion, sparked intense debate. Republicans are inclined towards making tax provisions permanent, reducing taxes on manufacturers, and increasing taxes on large university endowments. On the other hand, Democrats emphasize no tax increases on individuals making less than $400,000, enhancing startup expense deductions, and addressing affordable housing.
Higher Education and Workforce Development were also critical themes. Multiple member representatives underscored the importance of adapting educational programs to meet the evolving needs of the workforce. They highlighted that education is not only a domestic issue but also intricately tied to global competitiveness.
The Uncertainty of Regulation was discussed from both corporate and policy angles. Member representatives pointed out the challenges of navigating shifting regulatory environments. This has been a pressing issue across sectors, affecting infrastructure, workforce, and corporate decision-making.
Infrastructure and Reauthorization of major public works projects emerged as another priority, member representatives focused on the need for updated transportation infrastructure in the Greater Washington region, while ensuring sustainable financing.
Regionalism continues to shape local policy initiatives, which Board of Trade members discussed. It emphasized the significance of fostering cooperation between states and local governments to ensure regional development aligns with broader national priorities.
A recurring theme was Election Integrity, as multiple attendees raised concerns about the impact of electoral processes on governance. Notably, K&L analysts stressed that for Democrats to win the Electoral College, they would likely need to secure the popular vote by a margin of at least 3%, citing challenges in accurately polling certain voter demographics, particularly Trump supporters.
The discussion also touched on identity politics, with insights about how the 2024 elections may be shaped by which candidates best represent the values and identities of voters, rather than focusing solely on political experience, such as Vice President Kamala Harris’s tenure.
Geopolitical Issues also took center stage, with concerns about the international landscape affecting domestic policy. The reliance on Chinese goods, border policies, and ongoing conflicts such as those in Gaza, Israel, Russia, and Ukraine all create external pressures that influence voters and policymakers alike.
Looking forward, the general consensus is that policymaking will remain reactive, shaped by an interplay between state and local governments. The slim majority in Congress, regardless of which party holds control, will necessitate bipartisan cooperation to move forward on key initiatives, ranging from energy policy to AI and tech workforce development.
In sum, the policy environment is in constant flux, with a wide aperture for new issue areas while balancing ongoing legislative challenges. Voters face issues ranging from housing and education to energy and international affairs, all of which will demand innovative, cross-sector solutions in the next legislative session.
The Board of Trade believes it is vital to keep our members and the larger Greater Washington community informed on how policy and legislation can impact regional business. Some new laws in the DMV (Mostly in Maryland) take effect on October 1, with some having direct impact on how businesses interact financially with employees.
Below is a look at a variety of laws that take effect on October 1 that our policy team at the Board of Trade has collected:
SB 413– Employers cannot discriminate or engage in harassment, based on military status. Discrimination includes a failure or refusal to hire, discharge, or otherwise discriminate in compensation or terms, conditions, and privileges of employment. 2024 Regular Session – Senate Bill 413 Enrolled (maryland.gov)
SB 38 – Employers will be required to include additional information on employee’s pay stubs and pay statements. Employers will be required to include:
Employers name (as registered with the State), address, and telephone number;
Date of payment;
Pay period start and end dates;
Number of hours worked during pay period (unless employee is exempt from overtime pay);
Rate of pay;
Bases of pay (including bonuses, commissions on sales, etc.);
Piece rates of pay and the number of pieces completed at each rate (for each employee paid at a piece rate);
Gross and net pay earned during pay period;
Amount and name of all wage deductions.
Employers that fail to comply with the requirements of the law are subject to an administrative penalty of up to $500 per affected employee.
HB 0649 –In public and internal position postings, employers must provide a good faith wage range and general description of benefits, and any other compensation offered. A wage range is defined as “[t]he minimum and maximum hourly rate or minimum and maximum salary of an individual holding a comparable position at the time of the posting; or the budgeted amount for the position.”
If the position was not made available to an applicant, the information must be disclosed before a discussion of compensation is held or upon request of the applicant. Employers may not refuse to interview, hire, or employ an individual because they inquired about information in accordance with this law.
Washington D.C.
Clean Hands Certification Economic Expansion and Revitalization Amendment Act of 2024:
As of October 1, 2024, the amount of delinquent taxes, including penalties and interest, that will disqualify an applicant from receiving a certificate of cleans hands will increase from $100 to $1,000.
Real Property Tax Amendment Act of 2024:
As of October 1, 2024, residential real property previously classified as Class 1 will now be classified as either Class 1A or Class 1B. Class 1A property is any non-transient, residential property that is not included in the definition of Class 1B property. Class 1B property is non-transient residential property with no more than two dwelling units. It includes mostly single-family homes, properties receiving the senior/disabled tax relief, and up to two contiguous condominium units with common ownership. (Short-term, licensed rentals of such properties do not affect their Class 1A or Class 1B status.)
Recordation Tax: The purchase price for a residential property eligible for the reduced rate of recordation tax for first-time homebuyers for tax year 2025 (beginning October 1, 2024) shall not exceed $753,000.00. The income ceilings for households of such properties are also adjusted for the change in the consumer price index. These changes will be reflected in the application form for tax year 2025.
Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Tax:
Cigarettes: There is no change to the cigarette tax, which remains at $5.03.
Other Tobacco: The tax rate on other tobacco products will decrease from 79 percent of wholesale sales of other tobacco products to 71 percent of wholesale sales of other tobacco products. Additionally, the rate for little cigars remains at $0.2515 per little cigar.
Motor Fuel Tax:
The motor fuel surcharge will increase from $.114 to $.118 per gallon on the sale of gasoline, gasohol, and other motor vehicle fuel. This surcharge is in addition to the $.235 tax on the sale of gasoline, gasohol and other motor vehicle fuel.
HB 1186. Department of Conservation and Recreation; two-year pilot program; all-terrain power wheelchairs in state parks:
The law provides that the Department of Conservation and Recreation shall establish a two-year pilot program beginning October 1, 2024, and ending October 30, 2026, to enhance accessibility for individuals with limited mobility in Virginia’s state parks by providing all-terrain power wheelchairs that may be used by such persons during their visits. The law permits the Department to choose the locations for the pilot program and enter into a contract for the purchase of all-terrain power wheelchairs to be used in the pilot program. The law allows the Department to adopt guidelines to administer the pilot program and requires the Department to make a report available to the public regarding the outcome of the pilot program on its website by November 1, 2026.
HB 1475 Uniform Statewide Building Code; certain building owners and operators to supply cooling and heating:
Board of Housing and Community Development; Uniform Statewide Building Code; building owners and operators to supply cooling by April 1 and heating by October 1. Directs the Board of Housing and Community Development to evaluate revisions to the Uniform Statewide Building Code to require that owners and operators of certain apartment buildings begin to supply cooling by April 1 and heat by October 1 of each year to maintain certain temperatures. Under the current regulations, such cooling period begins May 15 and such heating period begins October 15.
WASHINGTON (Sept. 24, 2024) – Today, the Interstate Commission on the Potomac River Basin (ICPRB) unveiled a new report highlighting the significant and dire financial consequences facing the Washington, D.C., region in the event of a disruption to the area’s water supply during a press conference held today with leaders from the greater Washington area.
In just one month, a significant disruption from threats like infrastructure failures or natural disasters in D.C.’s water supply could result in a loss of $15 billion in gross regional product (GRP) and hundreds of millions in tax losses, according to the report, “The Economic and Fiscal Costs of Water Supply Disruption to the National Capital Region.”
ICPRB, along with officials from the Greater Washington Board of Trade, DC Water, the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (COG) and the American Business Water Coalition, today called for Congressional action to fund crucial infrastructure projects to ensure greater resiliency in the D.C. region’s water supply and safeguard the health and safety of both the public and the economy.
“The Potomac River is the single source of drinking water for D.C. and provides water for roughly five million people in the region,” said ICPRB Executive Director Michael Nardolilli. “It is integral to the functioning of the nation’s capital. This report clearly shows that any disruption to the water supply would have catastrophic economic consequences for the region, especially for the most vulnerable residents of our nation’s capital. Securing the resilience of our water infrastructure is not just a priority, it’s a necessity.”
“The interconnectedness of our region means that water supply disruptions would have far-reaching consequences affecting the District of Columbia as well as our neighboring communities in Virginia and Maryland,” said COG Board Chair and District of Columbia Councilmember Charles Allen. “This report underscores the importance of regional collaboration in safeguarding our water resources and why COG is working with our partners to ensure a backup water source for the region.”
“DC Water’s motto, ‘Water is life,’ reflects how seriously we, as the water authority for the nation’s capital, take our role in supplying our customers with abundant, safe and reliable water,” said David L. Gadis, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and General Manager of DC Water. “Resilience in the water sector, one of DC Water’s five strategic imperatives, is crucial not only for our success, but also for the health and wellbeing of the customers who depend on DC Water. This water supply vulnerability must be addressed to protect our city now and for the future generations to come.”
“Our region’s economic vitality and quality of life are directly tied to clean, reliable water resources,” said Jack McDougle, President and CEO of the Greater Washington Board of Trade. “This report highlights that a disruption in the water supply would not only harm the local economy but also have a disproportionate impact on the diverse business sectors and people who contribute to the vibrancy of our nation’s capital the Greater Washington region. This includes small, minority-owned, women-owned, and veteran-owned enterprises, which are at greater risk of permanent closure if forced to shut down due to water supply disruptions. It is imperative that we confront this challenge proactively to safeguard our thriving region and everything it has to offer.”
“Federal investment in our nation’s water infrastructure is essential to protect all communities from the devastating impacts infrastructure failures can have on operations,” said Mae Stevens, CEO of the American Business Water Coalition. “Restoring the country’s water systems to meet the needs of the population is expected to cost more than $1.25 trillion over the next 20 years, a figure far too large for utilities, companies and private citizens to meet alone. Congress needs to recognize this as a critical need and close the funding gap so that we can better protect the D.C. region and our nation against devastating water supply disruptions.”
Key findings presented in the report include:
Economic impact: The report estimates that a significant water supply disruption could result in losses of almost $15 billion in gross regional product (GRP) and hundreds of millions in tax losses, all within the first month.
Disproportionate impact: Small, women-owned and minority-owned businesses are particularly vulnerable to the effects of water supply disruption, with potential losses that could devastate their operations and subsequently, impact the livelihoods of their employees. Supply disruption would additionally have a greater impact on lower-income households that have fewer financial resources to mitigate the loss of services.
Sectoral vulnerability: Major sectors, including healthcare, food and beverage, chemical manufacturing and arts & entertainment, are identified as being at severe risk, underscoring the necessity for enhanced infrastructure resilience and preparedness.
Moving forward, ICPRB, COG, Fairfax Water, WSSC Water, the Washington Aqueduct, and Arlington County are partnering with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to undertake a backup water source study for the region to ensure greater water supply resiliency. The study, which received partial funding in the Energy and Water Appropriations Bill, will commence later this year.
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About The Interstate Commission on the Potomac River Basin
The ICPRB is an interstate compact commission established by Congress in 1940. Its mission is to protect and enhance the waters and related resources of the Potomac River basin through science, regional cooperation, and education. Represented by appointed commissioners, ICPRB includes the District of Columbia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, and the federal government.
About DC Water
DC Water provides more than 700,000 residents and 21.3 million annual visitors in the District of Columbia with retail water and wastewater (sewer) service. With a total service area of approximately 725 square miles, DC Water also treats wastewater for approximately 1.8 million people in neighboring jurisdictions, including Montgomery and Prince George’s counties in Maryland and Fairfax and Loudoun counties in Virginia.
About Greater Washington Board of Trade
Greater Washington is a dynamic and complex region with a quick-moving and always-evolving business environment. The Board of Trade, founded in 1889, is the region’s premier non-partisan business organization representing industry, nonprofits, universities, and government agencies in the District of Columbia, suburban Maryland, and Northern Virginia. We focus on inclusive economic growth, improving the business climate, and enhancing the region’s economic competitiveness.
About American Business Water Coalition
The American Business Water Coalition is a group of water-reliant businesses—from manufacturing to energy to tech and beyond. The coalition provides a platform for businesses across the country to urge Congress and the Administration to increase investment in water infrastructure, and foster relationships between businesses and their local utilities. Learn more about the coalition here: https://www.businesswatercoalition.com/
About Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments
The Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (COG) is an independent, nonprofit association that brings area leaders together to address major regional issues in the District of Columbia, suburban Maryland, and Northern Virginia. COG’s membership is comprised of 300 elected officials from local governments, the Maryland and Virginia state legislatures, and U.S. Congress.
This content was provided by DMVMoves in partnership with the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (COG) and the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA)
At the DMVMoves Task Force meeting on Sept. 23, area officials took another step forward in their effort to create a unified vision and sustainable funding model for the region’s transit network.
The task force, jointly organized by the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (COG) and the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA), reviewed initial recommendations presented by two advisory groups that have been working since June on the initiative’s vision, goals, and proposed actions for stronger coordination among the region’s 14 different transit systems.
Several actions focus on improving customer experience across all transit systems, such as integrating and aligning fare policies for the first time regionwide and implementing bus priority strategies to get the best value from high-frequency routes. In addition, officials are considering opportunities to combine functions and identify and pursue potential savings through cooperative purchasing and making training and certification for transit personnel more consistent across the region. Action plans to implement these recommendations will be provided in November for Task Force consideration and adoption.
In addition, the Task Force reviewed funding needs for the regional transit network, including Metro, MARC, VRE, and local bus systems, and began discussing scenarios and potential new public revenues to close projected funding gaps both to support service at existing levels as well as enhanced service options, such as starting implementation of the Better Bus Visionary Network, MARC and MTA commuter bus improvements, and increased Metrorail and local bus service. The Task Force will discuss scenarios for funding maximized service options and expansion at a future meeting.
The DMVMoves Task Force, co-chaired by COG Board Chair and District of Columbia Councilmember Charles Allen and WMATA Board Vice Chair Paul C. Smedberg, is made up of 23 elected and appointed officials from the District of Columbia, Maryland, Virginia, and the federal government. The Task Force is being advised by two groups – a Government Partners Advisory Group representing area jurisdictions and transit service providers as well as a Community Partners Advisory Group representing business, labor, and community organizations.
The DMVMoves initiative was launched at an historic convening of the COG and WMATA Boards of Directors in May and has undertaken an ambitious work plan to develop policy recommendations and final plan by May 2025. The next Task Force meeting will be held in November.
