This resolution expresses the State of Alabama's support for granting statehood to Washington, D.C., highlighting the historical context of voting rights for its residents. Initially, residents had the right to vote for representation in Congress when the U.S. Constitution was ratified in 1788, but this was revoked by the Organic Act of 1801. Although the Twenty-third Amendment allowed D.C. residents to vote for President and Vice President in 1961, they still lack full representation in Congress, despite having a population comparable to several states. The resolution notes that D.C. residents pay more federal taxes than residents of 22 states and have expressed overwhelming support for statehood through a 2016 referendum.
The resolution further emphasizes the lack of political equality for D.C. residents, who are subject to Congressional interference in their local governance and budgetary matters. It calls for the enactment of federal legislation, specifically H.R. 51 and S. 51, which would grant D.C. statehood and the rights associated with citizenship, including representation in Congress. The resolution also references international human rights organizations that have criticized the disenfranchisement of D.C. residents, urging Congress to take action to rectify this situation. Copies of the resolution will be sent to key federal officials to advocate for this cause.