• “We need to act now,” Bowser told reporters about the soaring crime. “And we need to send the strong message that violence is not acceptable in our city — and this perception that people have, that you can commit a brazen crime and get away with it, has got to stop.”


    “This legislation will change that,” she claimed.


    In 2020, Bowser issued an edict that forced people to wear a mask in the District when they left their homes “if they are likely to come into contact with another person for more than a fleeting moment.” Bowser finally dropped the mandate in late 2022.


    Over a year later, Bowser believes covering one’s face might lead to increased crime. “Obviously, our community’s relationship around wearing masks has changed significantly since 2020, and thank God for that, but we’ve all seen the videos,” Bowser said.