WASHINGTON (AP) — A Senate subcommittee has approved a major spending bill that would grant the District of Columbia full control over its local budget and laws.

The appropriations bill released publicly on Thursday represents a stark contrast to a spending bill approved by the House in terms of its effect on the District. The House version would invalidate the city’s strict gun-control policies and bar the District from liberalizing its marijuana laws.

Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton, a Democrat who represents the District in Congress, says the Senate version represents the first time an appropriations bill has given both budget and legislative autonomy to the District.

The ultimate fate of the District-related language will likely be decided in negotiations between the House, Senate and White House.

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