The resolution declares an emergency regarding the need to amend the Language Access Act of 2004 to include the District of Columbia Water and Sewer Authority (DC Water) as a covered entity with significant public contact. It also seeks to amend the District of Columbia Public Works Act of 1954 to require DC Water to provide monthly reports on disconnections to various governmental offices, clarify the imposition of late payment charges for water service, and modify notice requirements for water service disconnections to building occupants. This action is prompted by challenges faced by tenants in multifamily buildings who may be unaware of their building's water bill arrears, leading to disconnections that disproportionately affect vulnerable populations.

The resolution follows previous emergency and temporary legislation aimed at clarifying DC Water's authority to impose late fees on water service arrears and requiring regular reporting on disconnection activities. The previous emergency act expired in October 2025, and the temporary legislation is set to expire in May 2026, necessitating the adoption of this new emergency resolution to ensure continuity of these provisions until they can be made permanent. The Council believes that these amendments will enhance communication and support for residents facing disconnections and improve the overall management of water service billing and disconnection processes.