[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 26 (Wednesday, February 8, 2023)]
[House]
[Page H746]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 MAKE WASHINGTON SAFE FOR ALL AMERICANS

  (Ms. LEE of Florida asked and was given permission to address the 
House for 1 minute.)
  Ms. LEE of Florida. Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of H.J. 
Res. 26, Disapproving the Action of the District of Columbia Council in 
approving the Revised Criminal Code Act of 2022.
  As a former Federal prosecutor and circuit court judge, I know 
firsthand how important it is for criminal penalties to reflect the 
seriousness of a crime and to ensure the safety of our communities.
  Despite surging crime rates, the D.C. Council seeks to reduce the 
maximum sentences for violent crimes such as carjackings and robberies 
and enact procedural changes that will overburden the courts.
  This will undermine law enforcement, and it is contrary to the actual 
needs of the residents and visitors to our Nation's Capital.
  Republicans are committed to data-driven criminal justice policies 
that will strengthen our courts and law enforcement, combat rising 
crime rates, and protect our communities.
  Madam Speaker, I urge my colleagues to join me in support of this 
important measure to put an end to these policies and make Washington 
safe for all Americans.

                          ____________________