The resolution declares an emergency regarding the need to amend the District of Columbia Public Works Act of 1954 and the Water and Sewer Authority Establishment and Department of Public Works Reorganization Act of 1996. The amendments aim to clarify that property owners in the District must pay an impervious area charge (CRIAC) assessed by the District of Columbia Water and Sewer Authority (DC Water), including those not connected to the sewer system. This charge is essential for funding upgrades to the District's combined sewer system, which is necessary to prevent overflows during heavy rains and to comply with a federal consent order.

The resolution highlights that previous legislation intended to include all property owners in the CRIAC assessment, as even those not connected to the sewer system contribute to stormwater runoff. To address ongoing legal challenges regarding the authority of DC Water to levy this charge, the Council previously enacted emergency and temporary measures. However, with the temporary act set to expire soon, the Council has determined that immediate emergency legislation is necessary to ensure clarity and continuity in the assessment of the CRIAC. The resolution is effective immediately upon adoption.