The Committee on Executive Administration and Labor held a public hearing on June 13, 2025, chaired by Anita Bonds, focusing on the Petition Administration Clarification Amendment Act of 2025. The meeting featured testimony from various stakeholders, including Lisa Rice, CEO of Grow Democracy DC, who emphasized the importance of clear petition processes in enhancing democratic participation.

Rice, a native Washingtonian and former ANC commissioner, advocated for fully funding Initiative 83, which aims to reform the petition process in the District of Columbia. She highlighted that petitioning is a fundamental aspect of democracy, with 26 states, including D.C., allowing citizen-initiated ballot measures. Rice stressed that while the process should not be overly simplistic, it must be understandable to empower citizens to engage with their government effectively.

During her testimony, Rice shared her experiences with Initiative 83, noting that the current petition process is often vague and can lead to confusion among voters. She pointed out that errors in completing forms can result in valid signatures being discarded, which undermines the intent of those voters. Rice called for clarity in the rules governing petitions to ensure that citizens' voices are heard and respected.

The hearing also included contributions from other individuals, including Ankit Jain, the shadow senator for D.C., and Chris Furnish and Adam Ellinger, who provided additional perspectives on the petition process and its implications for local governance.

The discussions underscored a shared commitment among committee members and witnesses to improve the petitioning process, making it more accessible and transparent for all residents. The outcome of the hearing could lead to significant changes in how citizens can initiate ballot measures in the District, reinforcing the democratic principle of citizen engagement.