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Dear Customers, Colleagues, and Friends,
August marks a long‑awaited milestone for the Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP) as we proudly welcome BOSS, our new platform designed to make business registration and licensing easier, faster, and more intuitive. We’ve been working hard to build a modern system that meets the needs of our business community, and we are excited to share it with you.
We welcome you to the first edition of the BOSS Bulletin, providing an update on this important moment for DLCP. Along with information about the launch of BOSS, this newsletter also features highlights from the agency’s recent work, including key initiatives and activities from the past several weeks.
BOSS brings essential DLCP services together in one convenient place, giving businesses a modern experience that simplifies every step of the process. From licensing updates to corporate registration, everything will soon be accessible through a single, streamlined system built with customers in mind. The platform officially launches next week, marking an important step in how businesses access and manage essential services.
We’re grateful for your support as we begin this new chapter and look forward to the positive impact BOSS will have in the District.
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 Tiffany Crowe
Director
DLCP completed a focused round of External User Acceptance Testing (UAT) for the District’s new consolidated licensing platform, BOSS. As the launch approaches, external partners were invited to test the system the week of July 20 to help confirm that the platform is intuitive, functional, and ready for public use.
Participants included individuals familiar with DLCP’s current licensing systems as well as those exploring the new platform for the first time. Each tester received instructions, login details, and guided scenarios that allowed them to move through BOSS in the same way they would during a real filing. Their involvement gave DLCP a clear look at how the system operates from the perspective of everyday users.
The feedback from testing was encouraging. Many participants shared that logging into Access DC was very easy, and once inside the system, finding the correct application was straightforward. Most users described completing their tasks in BOSS as easy, and several noted that the new platform feels much better than the systems they previously used.
Participants also offered helpful observations that will support future refinements. Users generally found the on-screen questions easy to follow and appreciated how the system walked them through each step. A few suggestions, such as adding a timeline on the payment page to help applicants know what happens next, will help strengthen the experience even further.
This round of testing offered insight into how BOSS functions in real scenarios and highlighted thoughtful ways to enhance the user journey. DLCP is grateful for the time and feedback that participants contributed, and their input is helping shape the final adjustments ahead of the platform’s launch.
In addition to sharing data with DLCP to support licensing and compliance efforts, the Office of Tax and Revenue (OTR) and the Department of Buildings (DOB) has implemented several system enhancements of its own. These improvements are designed to help businesses complete key licensing‑related tasks more efficiently and to streamline the review process for staff.
Denial Reason Highlights
Clear, standardized denial reason flags have been introduced within the licensing workflow. These updates help staff quickly identify the specific issue that triggered a denial, reduce follow‑up time, and give applicants more accurate guidance on resolving outstanding concerns. This enhancement supports consistent decision‑making and improves transparency across the licensing process.
Installment Agreement Enhancements (CCH Override No Longer Required)
To simplify payment agreement processing, the system now allows installment agreements to proceed without requiring a manual CCH override. This automation removes an extra step for staff, speeds up approvals, and reduces dependency on specialized permissions. As a result, customers can enter into installment agreements more efficiently, improving payment compliance, and licensing continuity.
Electronic Submission of Income Statements (PA 1 & PA 2)
Applicants can now electronically submit PA 1 and PA 2 income statements directly through the system. This enhancement modernizes a historically paper‑based workflow, reduces data entry errors, and provides real‑time visibility into submitted financial documents. Electronic submission accelerates review timelines and supports a more seamless licensing application experience for customers.
DLCP–DOB Data‑Sharing Modernization
DLCP partnered with DOB to modernize data sharing and streamline customer services in preparation for the BOSS platform launch. By leveraging Databricks, both agencies established a secure environment to exchange key licensing and inspection datasets, reducing manual processing and improving data consistency.
This collaboration not only accelerates end to end workflows such as business licensing, rental housing compliance, and contractor validation, but also strengthens cross‑agency alignment to deliver a faster, more reliable customer experience for District residents and businesses.
As we prepare for the launch of BOSS, we also want to highlight what else has been happening across DLCP recently.
Our newest DLCP Hub article features Afghan Chai, a family‑owned chai business in Dupont Circle led by siblings Mirwais Mahmoud, Zaki Mahmoud, and Deeba Mahmoud. The business brings together authentic Afghan chai, cultural tradition, and the warmth of family heritage — sharing a blend rooted in their mother’s original recipes and the values that shaped their upbringing. From their start at farmers markets to securing a DC food cart, Afghan Chai reflects the richness of Afghan culture and the family story behind every cup.
Read the full feature on the DLCP Hub to explore Afghan Chai's origins and its growing presence in the District.
On Friday, July 31, DLCP Enforcement worked alongside the U.S. Park Police (USPP) and DC Fire and Emergency Medical Services (DCFEMS) in a coordinated operation on the National Mall near the National Archives and the Natural History Museums. USPP stopped food trucks for inspection, allowing DLCP and DCFEMS teams to conduct thorough reviews of licensing and safety compliance. |
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During the operation, USPP impounded multiple food trucks, several of which were held in custody for a 72‑hour period. Officers issued federal violation notices, and DLCP issued Notices of Infraction (NOI) following its inspections. |
DLCP played an active role in the effort, working closely with USPP and DCFEMS to address violations and support orderly operations in one of the District’s most visited locations. |
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 DLCP and DOB are here to help protect your rights. If you believe you have been the victim of an unfair or deceptive trade practice, unlicensed or illegal construction, or unlicensed OPL activity, file a complaint at the DLCP Complaint Portal or contact us at dlcp@dc.gov or at (202) 671-4500, and DLCP will refer the matter to the DOB if needed. 
The DC Board of Real Estate Commission successfully hosted its two‑day Mandatory Course Offerings on July 23 and 24, 2026, at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library. The event drew significant interest, with around 200 licensed Real Estate Commissioners registering to participate in this in‑person professional development opportunity.
The course sessions brought attendees together for timely updates, continuing education, and specialized training designed to strengthen real estate practice across the District. Day one opened with a Legislative Update led in the library auditorium, followed by a Fair Housing session and an Ethics course. These sessions provided participants with critical information regarding statutory changes, compliance expectations, and equitable housing obligations, helping commissioners stay well‑informed and aligned with District requirements.
Day two began with a Fair Housing Instructor Development Workshop, giving participants practical tools for training and instruction within their professional roles. Additional sessions included Property Management and Broker Supervision, both offering deeper insight into key components of managing real estate operations and guiding brokerage activity responsibly.
With strong participation and positive feedback, the DC Real Estate Commission continues to support high‑quality education for licensed commissioners, helping maintain a knowledgeable, well‑equipped real estate community in the District.
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On Thursday, July 16, the Business Resource Center (BRC) welcomed a strong turnout at DLCP for its in‑person Meet One-on-One with a Lawyer for Free event, held in partnership with the DC Bar Pro Bono Center. Community members formed a steady line throughout the session, reflecting the high level of interest from both existing and aspiring small business owners seeking legal guidance.
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The Small Business Brief Advice Legal Clinic offered attendees the opportunity to meet individually with experienced attorneys who provided personalized support on a wide range of small business legal topics. Business owners asked questions and received information about business formation, contracts, commercial leases, taxes, and other essential legal considerations that often arise when starting or growing a business. |
The event highlighted the need for accessible legal resources within the small business community. BRC’s collaboration with the DC Bar Pro Bono Center continues to support entrepreneurs by making sure they have the guidance necessary to navigate complex legal matters with confidence.
The Business Resource Center continues to offer practical tools and learning opportunities for District entrepreneurs. Our August schedule features workshops, coaching sessions, and resource events designed to support business owners at every stage of their journey.
We encourage you to review the full August BRC event schedule below and register for the sessions that align with your business goals.
DLCP works with nine Boards and Commissions that help shape licensing standards, uphold professional accountability, and support consumer protection throughout the District. These groups meet regularly to discuss issues affecting licensed industries, consider regulatory matters, and provide a forum where the public can follow ongoing work.
Residents and stakeholders can track upcoming meetings by visiting the monthly calendar on our website. The calendar lists meeting dates, times, and links to additional information.
Washington, D.C. — The District of Columbia Board of Professional Engineers and the District of Columbia Department of Licensing and Consumer Protection (DLCP) proudly announce that Dr. Samuel (Sam) Wilson, PE, F.NSPE, will be installed as President of the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) during the organization’s 2026 Annual Meeting, taking place August 18–21 in Henderson, Nevada. The formal installation will occur the evening of August 20.
Dr. Wilson currently serves as President Elect of the NCEES Board of Directors, continuing a distinguished record of leadership within the organization and throughout the engineering profession.
With more than 40 years of experience in construction management, Dr. Wilson has provided engineering expertise on large, complex projects across the United States and internationally. He is a licensed professional engineer in the District of Columbia and has served on the DC Board of Professional Engineers since 2017, including four years as Board Chair from 2017 to 2021.
His extensive contributions to NCEES include service on the Public Outreach Task Force, the Committee on Uniform Procedures and Legislative Guidelines, and the Committee on Finances. He also served as Northeast Zone Assistant Vice President from 2021 to 2023 and later as Northeast Zone Vice President following his commission at the 2023 Annual Meeting.
Reflecting on the responsibilities ahead, Dr. Wilson emphasized the importance of preparing future engineers for a rapidly changing technological landscape.
“When I look at how quickly technology is changing — especially with AI — I see a real need to reach out and help develop the next generation of professional engineers,” Wilson said. “I’m really looking forward to focusing on that.”
He also highlighted the universal nature of engineering principles and the shared global responsibility to prioritize public safety. “The rules of physics don’t look at borders, and the fundamentals of engineering are basically the same wherever you go,” Wilson said.
“The challenges we face around the world — especially when it comes to public health, safety, and welfare — are shared challenges. But the push for industrialization and rapid technological change doesn’t always consider people first. Professional engineers have to look at health, safety, and welfare first. There’s this real tension between progress and humanization, and that’s why the practice of engineering has to stay grounded in human factors and the safety of the people we serve.”
Dr. Wilson’s installation as NCEES President marks a significant milestone for the District of Columbia and reinforces the critical role of professional engineering in shaping the future of public safety and technological advancement.
On July 14, 2026, the Council of the District of Columbia passed the Restricting Egregious Scalping Against Live Entertainment Amendment Act of 2025 (B26-0224). The bill strengthens consumer protections in the live entertainment ticket market by:
Establishing firm pricing standards by:
- Capping secondary ticket sale prices at ten percent above face value, with an additional maximum fee allowance of ten percent, limiting total costs to no more than 120 percent of the ticket’s original price; and
- Requiring “all in” pricing so consumers see the total cost upfront.
Banning unfair market practices by:
- Prohibiting speculative pricing, where sellers list tickets they do not yet own; and
- Banning surveillance pricing, which uses consumer data (such as location or browsing history) to increase ticket costs.
Expanding regulatory oversight by:
- Requiring individuals or companies reselling more than fifty tickets annually to register with DLCP; and
- Mandating a $25,000 surety bond to ensure compliance and protect consumers.
On July 14, 2026, the Council also passed the Glazier Licensing Standards and Certification Act of 2025 (B26-422)! This legislation seeks to strengthen safety and craftsmanship in the District’s glazing industry by:
Updating licensing and certification standards by:
- Creating formal standards for glaziers and glazing contractors; and
- Adding two new glazier representatives to the Board of Industrial Trades.
The bill is intended to ensure that glass and metal installation work meets high standards of safety, quality, and energy efficiency. It passed final reading on July 14, 2026.
The Retail Energy Market Consumer Protection Amendment Act of 2026 (B26-0750) was introduced as standalone legislation after being removed from the FY 2027 Budget Support Act. The bill aims to protect consumers in the retail electric supply market by:
Introducing key consumer protection measures including:
- A proposed price cap on alternative electric suppliers relative to the Standard Offer Service; and
- Requirements designed to protect consumers from unfair trade practices in an otherwise unregulated market.
Introducing the subtitle as standalone legislation enables the Council’s Transportation and Environment Committee to thoroughly examine unfair practices and explore evidence‑based solutions. A Notice of Intent to Act on B26‑0750 was published in the DC Register on July 17, 2026.
The Entertainment Establishment Employee Safety Extension Emergency Amendment Act of 2026 (A26‑0376) remains in effect until October 20, 2026. These measures allow certain late‑night retail establishments and restaurants to:
Support safety by:
- Refusing cash payments, provided they display clear and conspicuous notice at the door or on menus.
These provisions match previous measures approved by the Council in December 2024 and October 2025.
A permanent version of this legislation—now known as Law 26‑0077—was introduced on January 17, 2025, received a hearing on June 9, 2025, and will expire on August 13, 2026.
Contact DLCP via email, or our online inquiry form at any time. We’re also available through the live chat on dlcp.dc.gov or by phone at 202-671-4500 during normal business hours.
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