In a highly controversial move that could attract legal challenges, local Washington, D.C., lawmakers have dealt another blow to the district’s beleaguered service sector businesses by passing the Displaced Workers Right to Reinstatement and Retention Amendment Act of 2020.

On Dec. 14, many district businesses’ capacities were cut in half from 50% to 25%. Then, on Dec. 15, lawmakers passed a bill, still awaiting the mayor’s signature, that dictates precisely who companies must rehire if they manage to survive this next round of restrictions.