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Bill

H 1753

An Act establishing a commission to study reparations in Massachusetts

194th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Christine Barber and 5 co-sponsors

Establishes a commission to study and propose reparations programs for Mass. residents descended from enslaved Africans, addressing slavery's ongoing impacts.

Accompanied a study order, see H5281 (under House Rule 27)
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Bill Summary · H 1753

Summary of H 1753: An Act establishing a commission to study reparations in Massachusetts

Main Purpose and Intent

This bill would establish a special commission to study and develop reparation proposals for Massachusetts residents who are descendants of enslaved Africans or people of African descent. The commission would be tasked with examining the institution of slavery, its ongoing impacts, and the role of the Commonwealth in perpetuating those impacts. Based on its findings, the commission would then recommend appropriate reparation programs, services, and other forms of compensation.

Key Provisions

  • Creates a 15-member "Commission on Reparation Proposals" to be appointed by the Governor, Attorney General, and legislative leaders
  • Requires the commission to hold public hearings, conduct research, and develop reparation proposals to address the harms of slavery and racial discrimination
  • Directs the commission to produce a report within 2 years of its first meeting, detailing its findings and recommending reparation programs and other remedies
  • Authorizes the commission to accept public and private funds to support its work
  • Provides $500,000 in initial state funding for the commission's operations

Who and What is Affected

The primary focus of this bill is on addressing the historical and ongoing impacts of slavery and racism on Massachusetts residents who are descendants of enslaved Africans. The commission's recommendations could lead to the establishment of reparation programs, services, or other forms of redress for this population.

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

The bill specifies that the commission must be appointed and convene its first meeting within 6 months of the legislation's effective date. It then has 2 years from the first meeting to complete its study and issue a final report. The hearing on this bill has been rescheduled from October 2025 to November 25, 2025.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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