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Maryland House Approves Bill for Statewide Reparations Commission

The bill, now awaiting Governor Wes Moore's decision, aims to study and recommend reparations for slavery and systemic racial discrimination.

Maryland Del. Aletheia McCaskill, a Democrat, speaks about a bill to create a state commission to study potential reparations for slavery during a news conference with members of the Legislative Black Caucus of Maryland, Jan. 16, 2025, in Annapolis, Md. (AP Photo/Brian Witte)
Md. House of Delegates conduct floor discussions on bills on Crossover Day in Annapolis.
Maryland Delegate Jheanelle K. Wilkins, Chair of the Maryland Legislative Black Caucus, speaks to the media during a press conference outlining the caucus's 2025 legislative priorities. (Kevin Richardson/Staff)
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Overview

  • The Maryland House of Delegates passed the reparations commission bill in a 101-36 vote, sending it to Governor Wes Moore for approval.
  • The commission will explore various reparations options, including monetary compensation, property tax rebates, social service assistance, and child care support.
  • Governor Moore has not stated whether he will sign the bill, citing both the state's $3.3 billion budget deficit and the lingering impacts of systemic racism.
  • The commission is required to submit a preliminary report by January 1, 2027, and a final report by November 1, 2027, detailing recommendations and potential costs.
  • The initiative aligns with similar efforts in states like California and New York, though implementation of major recommendations in those states has been limited.