Senate prevents $1 billion budget cut for D.C

The U.S. Senate has passed a bill to prevent a $1 billion budget cut for the District of Columbia. The legislation allows D.C. to maintain its budget instead of reverting to 2024 levels. It now moves to the House for consideration. D.C. leaders and residents were surprised by Congress's actions and protested against potential cuts to essential services. The Senate's unanimous vote aims to correct a funding oversight from a previous government funding package. The House is currently on recess but is expected to address the bill when they return in late March. D.C. officials emphasize the importance of maintaining local governance and funding for critical services.