EIA - Reparations plan in California could cost the state billions

2023-05-08 06:16:29 ET

California's reparations task force, which first convened nearly two years ago, has given the final approval to a list of recommendations on how the state may compensate and apologize to Black residents for historical discrimination.

"Reparations are not only morally justifiable, but they have the potential to address long standing racial disparities and inequalities," Representative Barbara Lee (D-CA) said during a weekend meeting. The proposals now go to state lawmakers to consider reparations legislation and a final sum, which some economists could cost the state upwards of $800B, or almost 3x the state's annual budget.

To be initially eligible, applicants must be a descendant of Black people who were in the country by the end of the 19th century, thouqh there are not yet details on how the payments would be funded. Age, state residence, and other factors will also play a role in determining compensation.

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