The resolution presented by Mayor Muriel Bowser seeks the Council of the District of Columbia's prompt consideration and adoption of several legislative measures aimed at reforming business licensing in the District. The proposed legislation includes amendments to the notice requirements for entertainment venue licenses, the re-establishment of a four-year basic business license, the authority for the Mayor to issue refunds for erroneously paid fees, and provisions allowing individuals with licenses expired for over nine months to renew their licenses upon payment of a fine. These changes are deemed necessary to address potential adverse impacts on businesses ahead of the implementation of the Business and Entrepreneurship Support to Thrive Act (BEST Act) on October 1, 2025.

The resolution emphasizes the urgency of these amendments, citing the need to streamline the licensing process and support the local business community, particularly in light of the anticipated increase in demand for licenses and the challenges posed by the BEST Act. The Mayor's office has identified critical issues that could hinder business operations if not addressed promptly, including the lack of infrastructure for conducting hearings on license applications and the elimination of the popular four-year business license. The resolution concludes by declaring the existence of an emergency, allowing for the immediate adoption of the proposed legislation after a single reading.