
The D.C. Council is back, and city lawmakers will take up right where they left off--battling the worst economy since the Great Depression.
The agenda for the council's first legislative session since the summer reflects the city's tough economic climate and a joblessness rate that now tops 11 percent. Some of the proposed bills include extending unemployment benefits, making it easier to go on public assistance and helping some residents make their rent.
The council will also tackle its own financial problems. Council chair Vincent Gray says lawmakers will take a final vote on this year's budget. The city has had to revise its revenue estimates four times in the past year as tax receipts continued to come up short.
Council Chairman Vincent Gray will also propose an official set of ethical guidelines for members and their staff.
Patrick Madden reports...

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