In a dramatic turn of events, two crucial bills aimed at providing reparations to African American descendants of enslaved people failed to make it to the Assembly floor for a vote. Despite years of effort to make California the first state to pass reparations laws, Senators were unable to convince Assembly leaders to consider the bills in the final hours of the legislative session.
Senator Steven Bradford’s SB 1403 and SB 1331, which aimed to create a new agency and fund for reparations, were left in limbo, leading to disappointment and frustration among advocates. Governor Gavin Newsom’s administration attempted to modify one of the bills to authorize further study on the issue, which was met with opposition from Bradford and supporters who believed it would delay much-needed action.
While some bills in the 14-bill reparations package passed, discrepancies remained over the direction and implementation of the reparations effort. Members of the Black Caucus and supporters blamed a fear of a potential veto by the Governor for the bills’ stalling, while Assemblymember Lori Wilson cited concerns over the legislation’s oversight and generational impact.
Despite the setback, the Black Caucus remains committed to reintroducing the bills in the following legislative session, viewing reparations as a multi-year effort. The intense advocacy displayed by protesters at the Capitol highlighted the urgency and importance of addressing the legacy of slavery and systemic discrimination faced by Black Americans. Newsom’s office has shown support for the reparations package, setting aside funds and collaborating closely with the California Legislative Black Caucus to advance the effort.
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