Maryland — Governor Wes Moore vetoed Senate Bill 587, legislation that sought to create a commission to explore reparations for descendants of slaves in Maryland. The bill had passed both legislative chambers with strong Democratic support in April but was rejected by Moore on May 16.
The proposed Maryland Reparations Commission would have studied the feasibility and appropriate forms of reparations for families affected by slavery. Despite broad legislative backing, Moore argued the state should shift focus from studies to actionable solutions, emphasizing efforts to reduce racial wealth gaps, boost homeownership, support entrepreneurs of color, and address systemic inequalities in food security and education. The bill’s passage margins were sufficient for lawmakers to override the veto during the next session, scheduled for January.
Maryland Senate President Bill Ferguson’s office stated that the Senate will review the veto and consider possible responses. Moore referenced previous state commissions formed over the past 25 years addressing slavery’s legacy, including the Maryland Lynching Truth and Reconciliation Commission and studies on slavery’s impact in Maryland. In his veto letter, he acknowledged extensive scholarship and the contributions of Maryland experts toward understanding slavery’s ongoing effects on Black communities.
Maryland Governor Wes Moore
Photo: Governor.Maryland.gov