Governor Vetoes State Reparations Bill

Maryland Governor Wes Moore vetoed a bill to create a commission to study and recommend reparations for slavery and racial discrimination, citing existing state efforts to address racial justice. In his veto letter, Moore referenced ongoing initiatives like the Maryland Lynching Truth and Reconciliation Commission and the State Commission to Coordinate the Study, Commemoration, and Impact of the History and Legacy of Slavery in Maryland. He emphasized that it was time to focus on tangible change rather than further studies, stating, "I will always protect and defend the full history of African Americans in our state and country...now is the time to focus on the work itself: Narrowing the racial wealth gap, expanding homeownership, uplifting entrepreneurs of color, and closing the foundational disparities that lead to inequality — from food insecurity to education."

Moore, the State's first Black governor, highlighted the progress made by Black political leaders in Maryland, including the election of the State's first Black female senator, Angela Alsobrooks, as well as the presence of Black leaders in key state positions like the attorney general, state House Speaker, and treasurer. "We have moved in partnership with leaders across the state to uplift Black families and address racial disparities in our communities," he wrote. Moore added, "While I appreciate the work that went into this legislation, I strongly believe now is not the time for another study. Now is the time for continued action that delivers results for the people we serve."

The vetoed bill, backed by the Legislative Black Caucus of Maryland, proposed measures like financial compensation, down payment assistance, debt forgiveness, and tuition waivers for higher education as potential reparations. The caucus condemned Moore's decision, saying, "Governor Moore had a chance to show the country and the world that here in Maryland we boldly and courageously recognize our painful history and the urgent need to address it. Instead, the State's first Black governor chose to block this historic legislation."

At the federal level, Rep. Ayanna Pressley and Sen. Cory Booker have reintroduced H.R. 40, a bill to establish a federal reparations commission, while Rep. Summer Lee has reintroduced the Reparations Now resolution.

Link: The Hill