The Subcommittee on Federal Lands convened a legislative hearing to discuss five bills, including H.R. 5103, known as the Make the District of Columbia Safe and Beautiful Act. This bill seeks to codify President Trump’s Executive Order 14252, which aims to improve safety and aesthetics in Washington, D.C., and establish the District of Columbia Safe and Beautiful Commission.
Subcommittee Chairman Tom Tiffany (R-Wis.) addressed concerns about crime in the capital. “After suffering through four years of President Biden’s weak-on-crime agenda, our nation's capital has become one of the most dangerous cities in the country. Today, the Subcommittee on Federal Lands will take up legislation to ensure that Washington, D.C., is safe, beautiful, and a display of national pride for all who visit,” he said.
Recent statistics show an increase in crime rates in Washington, D.C., with 2023 marking its deadliest year in two decades at 274 homicides. In 2024, there were over 29,000 reported crimes including vehicle thefts and violent offenses.
In response to these developments, President Trump issued Executive Order 14252 on March 27, 2025. Later that year, EO 14333 declared a crime emergency in D.C., deploying National Guard members to areas with high crime rates. Following this deployment, reports indicated notable reductions in violent crime and carjackings.
During this period, two National Guardsmen assigned to protect the city were attacked near the White House. U.S. Army Specialist Sarah Beckstrom died from her injuries while U.S. Air Force Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe remains hospitalized.
Alongside H.R. 5103, the subcommittee reviewed other proposed legislation: H.R. 4931 would allow for longer leases within National Park System units; H.R. 5063 addresses lifeguard staffing at federal beaches; H.R. 4671 focuses on casualty assistance for wildland firefighters; and H.R. 5254 proposes partnerships for hosting private events at Gateway Arch National Park buildings.
Further information about these legislative efforts can be found by visiting the committee's website.
