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Maryland lawmakers have voted to create a commission to study potential reparations for slavery, overriding Governor Wes Moore's veto, per NBC News.
On Tuesday (December 16), the Democratic-controlled General Assembly overturned the veto from Moore, who previously said Maryland had already studied slavery's impact extensively and should instead focus on direct action.
“It was a difficult decision,” Moore wrote in May when he vetoed the commission, arguing it was time to “focus on the work itself.”
After Tuesday's override vote, Moore said he disagreed with lawmakers but would cooperate with their decision.
“I am eager to move forward in partnership on the work of repair that we all agree is an urgent and pressing need,” he said.
Supporters of the bill said a formal commission is necessary to develop legally sound and effective policies.
“Without formal study, reparations risk being dismissed as symbolic or unconstitutional, regardless of moral merit,” state Sen. Charles Sydnor said in a statement.
The commission is set to examine a wide range of potential reparations, including official apologies, monetary compensation, property tax rebates, social service assistance, and licensing or permit fee waivers. Other options outlined in the bill include down payment assistance for homebuyers, business incentives, childcare support, debt forgiveness, and tuition waivers for higher education.
The Legislative Black Caucus of Maryland praised the override vote, calling it a reaffirmation of “truth-telling, accountability, and meaningful progress” at a time of growing resistance to DEI initiatives nationwide. Maryland joins other states and cities exploring reparations, including California, New York City, and Evanston, Illinois, which became the first U.S. city to implement a reparations program in 2021.
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