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3w ago

M

The proposed legislation, a priority for the Black Caucus, awaits a final vote in the House as Governor Wes Moore withholds public support.

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 has given preliminary approval to a bill establishing a reparations commission to study and recommend benefits for descendants of enslaved individuals and those impacted by systemic racial inequities.
  • The bill, which passed the Senate in March, is expected to clear its final vote in the House before the legislative session adjourns next week.
  • If enacted, the commission would deliver a preliminary report by January 1, 2027, and a final report by November 1, 2027, outlining recommendations and funding mechanisms for reparations.
  • Governor Wes Moore has not stated whether he will sign the bill, emphasizing his focus on economic priorities and avoiding direct answers about the measure.
  • The legislation faces scrutiny over its financial feasibility, with Maryland grappling with a $3.3 billion budget deficit projected to grow to $6.7 billion by 2028.