Sylvia Goldsberry-Adams

The Board conducted a hearing to determine if the proposed Referendum on the Tipped Minimum Wage Timeline Amendment Act of 2025 constitutes a proper subject for a referendum. The meeting included testimonies from the proposer, legal counsel, and public participants regarding the legal validity of the measure. The Board discussed whether the act, passed by the Council as part of the budget process, qualifies as an appropriation of funds or a budget act, ultimately concluding that the measure is a proper subject for referendum. Additionally, the Board reviewed and debated the language and formulation of the summary statement to be presented to voters, aiming to clarify the effects of voting yes or no on the referendum.

The Board reviewed an investigation into a suspected instance of double voting in the 2024 General Election. Evidence suggested that a ballot was cast in the name of an individual in both the District of Columbia and Maryland. Despite attempts to contact the individual, the Board moved to accept the General Counsel's recommendation to refer the matter to the Office of Attorney General for further investigation and possible prosecution, contingent upon a period allowed for the filing of a motion for reconsideration.

The Board reviewed an investigation regarding a miscast ballot in the general election where a voter inadvertently cast a ballot issued to another person. The General Counsel presented evidence and a stipulated agreement, concluding that the incident was an innocent mistake without criminal intent. Consequently, the Board accepted the agreement and imposed a civil fine of $100.00, declining to recommend criminal referral.

The board meeting will address internal organizational matters, including a report from the Executive Director and a report from the General Counsel. The General Counsel's agenda includes discussions on rulemaking for Title 3 of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations concerning election procedures, initiatives, referendums, recalls, and candidate nominations. Additionally, the meeting will cover various enforcement hearings and updates on the status of ongoing litigation, followed by a campaign finance report and a period for public comment.

The board meeting addressed several key agenda items, including the status of the 2026 election cycle planning, updates on ranked choice voting outreach, and cybersecurity monitoring efforts. A significant portion of the meeting focused on the adoption of formulations for the 'Rent Control and Housing Eligibility Adjustment Amendment Act of 2026', as well as the approval of emergency rulemaking to Title 3 of the DC Municipal Regulations regarding petition challenge procedures. Furthermore, the board conducted enforcement hearings related to cases of voters casting multiple ballots in previous elections, resulting in specific fines and referrals to the Office of the Attorney General. The meeting also included an update on current litigation matters involving the Board.