The D.C. budget autonomy referendum approved by an overwhelming majority of voters in April 2013 has “no legal effect,” according to a decision by the Government Accountability Office.

The 12-page opinion released today ultimately concludes that the city can’t change Congress’ control over the budget process through a vote.

Provisions of the Budget Autonomy Act that attempt to change the federal government’s role in the District’s budget process have no legal effect. District officers and employees continue to be bound by the Antideficiency Act, which bars them from obligating funds except in accordance with appropriations enacted by Congress. The District Government remains bound by provisions of federal law which require it to submit budget estimates to the President for transmission to the Congress for the enactment of appropriations.

Before the GAO opinion — which has no legal effect — was released, representatives from DC Vote said it’s “only the legal opinion of one federal agency, and will not be binding on the District.”

“This law was enacted under precise guidelines laid out in the Home Rule Act,” DC Vote executive director Perry said in a release, referencing the 30-day congressional review period which has passed. “District voters overwhelmingly supported the Charter referendum and Congress did not challenge it during the required congressional review period.

Council Chair Phil Mendelson said in a statement, “I strongly believe that the amendment to the D.C. Charter, to provide the District with autonomy to spend its own local dollars, is right, legal, and proper. Although the opinion of the GAO is not law, today’s opinion will certainly be cited by those opposing District control over its own local funds. Contrary to GAO’s opinion, the Autonomy Act retains Congress’ role and authority in local budget matters, and the new procedure meets the requirements of the Anti-Deficiency Act.”

“Given the ambiguity caused by GAO, Congress should take this opportunity to acknowledge explicitly the right of District residents to determine how their tax dollars should be spent,” he continued.

“While GAO opinions are certainly well respected in Congress, they have no legal effect,” Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton said in a release. “What is most clear is the need, desire and momentum for congressional action for full budget autonomy.”

The opinion will likely influence how new Chief Financial Officer Jeffrey S. DeWitt responds to the referendum as the 2015 budget process begins.