This bill requires certain federal legal officials who work in Washington, D.C. to actually live in the District of Columbia. Specifically, it applies to federal judges (both district and appeals court judges), court clerks, U.S. attorneys, and U.S. marshals who are assigned to work there. Right now, these officials can live anywhere and commute to D.C. for work, but this bill would change that by making residency in D.C. a requirement for their positions.

The practical effect is that these federal officials would need to establish their primary residence within D.C.'s boundaries if they want to hold these jobs. This could affect recruitment and retention of judges and prosecutors, since some people might not want to move to D.C. or might prefer living in nearby areas like Maryland or Virginia. On the flip side, supporters of this bill might argue it ensures these officials are more connected to and invested in the community they serve.

District of Columbia Federal Judicial Officials Residency Equality Act of 2025

Norton, Eleanor Holmes

District of Columbia Federal Judicial Officials Residency Equality Act of 2025This bill requires U.S. district and circuit court judges, U.S. district court clerks, U.S. attorneys, and U.S. marshals who are appointed to serve in the District of Columbia to be residents of the District of Columbia.