Breakfast links: Can you afford it?

Race and riches

Race is a major factor in economic security in DC, according to a recent study. White households have a median net worth that’s 81 times higher than in black households, and white residents are more likely to be homeowners with a higher median home value than black residents. (WCP, Urban Turf)

Vacancies will cost you

The DC City Council unanimously approved a bill to encourage owners to fix up ramshackle structures quickly.  Tax rates on vacant and blighted properties will go up, and there will be more limits on owners using a construction exemption so they don’t have to pay. (WCP)

Potomac Yard is a go

Alexandria now has federal approval to build a new Metro stop at Potomac Yard, between National Airport and Braddock Road on the Yellow and Blue lines. The city is footing the bill but WMATA will oversee construction. (Post)

Right to die in DC

DC is moving towards allowing doctor-assisted suicide. The DC Council approving the “Death with Dignity” bill is the latest indicator that DC’s politicians are more liberal than previous generations. (WAMU, Post)

Tell tellers goodbye

As part of its budget cuts, Metro will close all but one in-person sales office by November 15. You can buy passes from Metro’s automatic fare machines or online, and at some local stores. (WTOP)

Paid family leave, sort of

The Montgomery County Council expanded a new sick and safe leave act to allow workers to use their accrued time as parental leave even if their employer does not have a parental leave policy. (Bethesda Beat)

Register now

If a new bill becomes law, when eligible voters get a drivers license in DC, they’ll also be registered to vote unless they opt out. The DC Council hopes it will combat remarkably low turnout in local elections. (DCist, Citylab)