MARYLAND – The Maryland state legislature has passed a bill to create a commission that will explore potential reparations for descendants of enslaved people in the state. Senate Bill 587, introduced by Democratic senators from Prince George’s and Baltimore counties, now awaits Governor Wes Moore’s approval. The proposed Maryland Reparations Commission would study the impacts of slavery and past discriminatory policies in the state and advise on appropriate reparations.
Potential reparations could include official apologies, monetary compensation, property tax rebates, home down payment assistance, business incentives, debt forgiveness, and college tuition waivers, among others. The commission is required to submit a preliminary report by January 2027 and a final report later that year with recommendations for reparations. The bill passed the Maryland Senate with a 32-13 vote on March 14 and later sparked a divisive debate in the House of Delegates.
While Republican lawmakers raised concerns about the fairness of holding current Marylanders accountable for past injustices, Democratic lawmakers emphasized the ongoing impacts of slavery and racial discrimination on today’s society.
The bill passed the House with a 101-36 vote, largely along party lines, and now awaits Governor Moore’s decision. If signed into law, it will take effect on July 1, 2025.
Maryland Governor Wes Moore / Photo: Maryland.gov