Maryland Democrats have overridden Governor Wes Moore’s veto on a reparations study, securing a top priority for the state’s Legislative Black Caucus. The vote comes after lawmakers deliberated their positions on examining and repairing the generational harm caused by the country’s history of slavery and state-sanctioned discrimination.
The Democratic majority nullified Moore’s veto, with lawmakers expressing the need to further examine and consider solutions to the harms caused by racist policies. Republicans questioned the study, costs, and who would receive compensation.
Governor Moore said he still has concerns about unfunded mandates and multiyear analyses, but emphasized his commitment to partnering with the General Assembly in the new year. He had initially proposed a plan for reparations through an executive order, which lawmakers say is similar to their bill.
The Legislative Black Caucus has hailed the override as a step forward, stating that it will allow lawmakers to work together to address the needs of every neighborhood. The bill’s lead sponsor, Del. Aletheia McCaskill, said she felt relieved after facing threats and losing relationships since proposing the bill earlier this year.
Moore has acknowledged experiencing generational harms firsthand due to the country’s history of slavery and Jim Crow laws. He emphasized his commitment to swift policy changes rather than committing the state to a study.
Source: https://www.thebanner.com/politics-power/state-government/maryland-reparations-slavery-governor-wes-moore-veto-override-HTR7T4JVENGLPFRZTW3AWU72DQ