MA H1753

Establishes a permanent commission on reparations consisting of 9-15 members appointed by the governor, plus additional members appointed by the senate president, house speaker, attorney general, and joint committee chairs on racial equity

Commission will study slavery and its consequences on residents of African descent, including the slave trade (1565-1865), post-Civil War discrimination, and lingering effects on health, economics, education, and social outcomes

Requires identification of Massachusetts businesses, corporations, higher education institutions, religious organizations, and other entities that participated in or benefited from slavery

Commission must submit findings and recommendations within 2 years of first meeting, including proposals for compensation, formal apology, policy remedies, and eligibility criteria for reparations

Grants commission power to hold hearings, subpoena witnesses and documents, request assistance from state agencies, and provide lineage-based research tools to descendants of enslaved persons