The Council of the District of Columbia, commonly known as the D.C. Council, is the legislative branch of the District of Columbia’s government, serving as the city’s primary lawmaking body. Established in 1975 under the Home Rule Act, the Council was created to grant D.C. residents greater autonomy in local governance, allowing them to elect their own leaders and shape local policy. The Council consists of 13 members: eight representing individual wards and five elected at-large, including the Council Chairman. This structure ensures both neighborhood-specific and citywide representation. The D.C. Council’s responsibilities are broad and impactful. It drafts, amends, and passes legislation, oversees the city’s budget (which exceeds $20 billion annually), and monitors the performance of District agencies. The Council also plays a critical role in shaping public policy on issues ranging from public safety and education to economic development and technology. Committees such as the Committee on Business and Economic Development and the Committee on Technology and Innovation focus on fostering a vibrant, forward-thinking economy and supporting the District’s growing tech sector. A notable aspect of the Council’s work is its oversight of government operations and its annual budget hearings, which ensure transparency and accountability. The Council also collaborates with the Mayor’s office to maintain a balanced budget, a legal requirement for the District. While the Council’s legislation must be reviewed by Congress, it has successfully enacted groundbreaking policies, including initiatives to support small businesses, promote clean energy, and expand broadband access. Today, the D.C. Council remains a dynamic force in local governance, driving innovation and economic growth. Its commitment to constituent services and its role in shaping the city’s future make it a key player for anyone interested in the intersection of business, technology, and public policy in the nation’s capital.