Commission to Study and Develop Reparation Proposals for African Americans Act

In Plain Language

This bill creates a commission to study the history of slavery and discrimination against African Americans and develop proposals for how the government could make amends. The commission will gather historical evidence, examine how federal and state governments supported slavery, analyze discriminatory laws against freed slaves and their descendants, and recommend remedies like a formal apology and compensation. The commission will include people from civil rights and reparations organizations appointed by the President and Congress, and must finish its work within 18 months.

Official Congressional Research Service summary

Commission to Study and Develop Reparation Proposals for African Americans Act This bill establishes the Commission to Study and Develop Reparation Proposals for African Americans. The commission must (1) compile documentary evidence of slavery in the United States; (2) study the role of the federal and state governments in supporting the institution of slavery; (3) analyze discriminatory laws and policies against freed African slaves and their descendants; and (4) recommend ways the United States may recognize and remedy the effects of slavery and discrimination on African Americans, including through a formal apology and compensation (i.e., reparations).The commission consists of individuals from civil society and reparations organizations and individuals appointed by the President and congressional leadership; Members of Congress and governmental employees may not serve on the commission. The commission may hold hearings, subpoena witnesses and records, and contract with other entities to conduct its work. The commission must submit its final report within 18 months of its first meeting.