ANNAPOLIS, MD — Maryland lawmakers voted Tuesday to override Gov. Wes Moore’s veto and formally establish a commission to study potential reparations for African Americans impacted by slavery and decades of discriminatory government policies.
The General Assembly approved the override during a special session, clearing the way for a 23-member Maryland Reparations Commission tasked with examining state, local, and federal policies between 1877 and 1965, including the Jim Crow era. The commission will assess how public and private institutions benefited from discriminatory practices and recommend possible remedies, ranging from formal apologies to monetary compensation, housing aid, or social service programs.
The bill had been a priority of the Legislative Black Caucus and drew national attention when Moore, the nation’s only Black governor, vetoed it in May. In his veto message, Moore argued that Maryland has already studied the legacy of slavery extensively and should focus on direct action. Despite the disagreement, Moore said following the override that he is prepared to move forward with what he described as “the work of repair.”
Supporters of the measure said the commission is a necessary step toward accountability. Democratic lawmakers emphasized that disparities tied to segregation, redlining, and unequal access to education continue to shape outcomes in Maryland, where Black residents make up roughly 30% of the population. Opponents, primarily Republicans, criticized the commission as divisive and questioned whether reparations would fairly address historical injustices.
The commission is required to submit a preliminary report by 2027, followed by final recommendations later that year. While the study does not mandate reparations, its findings could shape future legislative action and place Maryland among a growing number of states formally examining reparative policies.
Sources:
Discover more from News Facts Network
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
