House Joint Resolution No. ___, introduced by B. Carter, expresses the State of Montana's support for admitting Washington, D.C., as a state in the United States. The resolution outlines the historical context of D.C.'s governance, highlighting the lack of full representation and self-governance for its residents despite their contributions as U.S. citizens. It references the 23rd Amendment, which allows D.C. to appoint electors for President and Vice President, and the District of Columbia Home Rule Act, which granted limited local self-government but still left significant control in the hands of Congress.
The resolution calls for Congress and the President to respect local self-government and Home Rule in D.C. and to enact legislation that would grant statehood to its residents. It emphasizes the desire of D.C. voters for statehood, as demonstrated by a 2016 referendum where a significant majority supported the admission of D.C. as the State of New Columbia. The resolution concludes by directing the Secretary of State to send copies to key federal officials, advocating for the rights and representation of D.C. residents.