Maryland's legislature has pushed through a bill to form a reparations commission, overriding the governor's veto. The new panel will study potential compensation for descendants of those enslaved in the state. Possible recommendations include financial payments, property tax breaks, housing downpayment aid, and college tuition waivers.
Governor Wes Moore, the nation's only current Black governor, had rejected the bill. He argued existing studies were sufficient and called for direct action on wealth and homeownership gaps instead. Lawmakers in both chambers voted decisively to enact the legislation despite his objections.
The commission must deliver a preliminary report within two years, with a final analysis due later that same year. This move follows increased national attention on racial justice, but also faces political pushback.
Governor Wes Moore, the nation's only current Black governor, had rejected the bill. He argued existing studies were sufficient and called for direct action on wealth and homeownership gaps instead. Lawmakers in both chambers voted decisively to enact the legislation despite his objections.
The commission must deliver a preliminary report within two years, with a final analysis due later that same year. This move follows increased national attention on racial justice, but also faces political pushback.
