California Panel Approves Recommendations for Reparations

California's reparations task force approved recommendations Saturday for how the state should compensate black residents for discrimination and slavery.

The Details: After nearly two years of deliberation, the nine-member panel approved proposals that now go to state lawmakers to be considered for legislation. Only black Californians who can prove they are descendants of slaves or freed black people living in the U.S. before the end of the 19th century would qualify. Qualified residents could receive up to $1.2 million each if the plan becomes law. The final recommendations don't mention funding sources or an estimated price tag for the initiative. 

Key Quotes: "Reparations are not only morally justifiable, but they have the potential to address longstanding racial disparities and inequalities," Rep. Barbara Lee (D) said. "There’s no way in the world that many of these recommendations are going to get through because of the inflationary impact," reparations scholar Roy L. Brooks said at the Saturday meeting.

For Context: A preliminary estimate from economists in March predicted that the plan could cost California up to $800 billion. The state would be the first with such a reparations plan.

How the Media Covered It: Center- and right-rated sources focused more on how the recommendations don't include a projected price of the initiative, and framed the process for devising the recommendations as contentious. Left-rated sources focused more on the content of the panel's meetings and decision-making process, and on voices who support the idea.