State Government – Maryland Reparations Commission – Revisions

SB 476 revises the structure and operations of Maryland's Reparations Commission. It adds new membership roles, including a representative from the Maryland Lynching Truth and Reconciliation Commission, a representative from the Maryland Commission for African American History and Culture, two faith leaders (one appointed by each chamber), and Governor-appointed experts in mental health, historical research, civil rights law, and African American financial institutions. The bill requires the Commission to hold at least three public hearings, study benefits for those impacted by historical inequality, and submit a preliminary report by September 1, 2028, and a final report by December 1, 2028. The Commission will sunset automatically on June 30, 2029, ending its work without further legislative action.