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. It notes that while the U.S. Constitution initially allowed residents to vote for representation in Congress, the Organic Act of 1801 revoked this right, and although the Twenty-third Amendment granted them the ability to vote for President and Vice President in 1961, they still lack full representation in Congress. The resolution emphasizes that D.C. residents, numbering approximately 689,545, pay more federal taxes than residents of 22 states and have shown overwhelming support for statehood through a 2016 referendum.
Furthermore, the resolution points out that D.C. residents face significant limitations on self-governance, with Congress frequently interfering in local matters and budgetary decisions. It references the introduction of H.R. 51 and S. 51 in the 118th Congress, which aim to grant D.C. statehood and full citizenship rights, including representation in Congress. The resolution concludes by urging Congress to enact legislation for D.C. statehood and calls for copies of the resolution to be sent to key federal officials to advocate for this cause.