MD SB587

Establishes the Maryland Reparations Commission to study and recommend benefits for individuals whose ancestors were enslaved in Maryland or impacted by inequitable government policies from 1877-1965, including housing segregation, redlining, and restrictive covenants

Commission consists of approximately 21 members including state legislators, the Comptroller, State Treasurer, representatives from HBCUs, NAACP, Maryland Black Chamber of Commerce, historians, mental health experts, and civil rights attorneys

Commission must submit a preliminary report by January 1, 2027 and a final report by November 1, 2027 with recommendations on eligibility requirements, lineage verification procedures, cost estimates, and potential funding sources

Potential reparations benefits under consideration include official apologies, monetary compensation, property tax rebates, down payment assistance, business incentives, debt forgiveness, and tuition payment waivers

Act takes effect July 1, 2025 and automatically expires June 30, 2028 without further legislative action