Why D.C. Needs to Ask More of Its Wealthier Residents and Businesses

On October 16, 2026 the D.C. Council convened an invite-only hearing to consider various proposals for raising revenue in the coming fiscal year, to fund important programs that provide health insurance and income supplements to its most vulnerable residents, including First Shift’s clients. Experts weighed in on proposed solutions such as a Business Activities Tax, a Wealth Proceeds Tax, a Pied-a-Terre Tax, and a Land Value Tax. First Shift’s Executive Director submitted written testimony for the record. Here’s the end: “I know redistribution of wealth is generally not a political winner; however, in our community, one that fancies itself to be progressive, asking residents and businesses who can, to pay more, to contribute to the common good and fund programs for residents in distress, seems in line with our values. Indeed, it is the way most adults would instruct an elementary-aged child in the lunchroom if her classmate had no lunch and she had an extra apple.  Do not wait til FY28. Thank you.” Read her full testimony here.