Minnesota House Bill HF2397

Minnesota 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/2/23
• Refer: 3/2/23

Caption

Minnesota Migration Act and account established, report required, funding provided to study and provide reparation grants for American descendants of chattel slavery who reside in state, and money appropriated.

Impact

If enacted, HF2397 would create a Minnesota Migration Act account within the state treasury, specifically appropriating funds to the Department of Human Rights for administering the grants. It establishes a comprehensive advisory council tasked with analyzing the economic benefits that slavery conferred on individuals and institutions, while developing criteria and processes to distribute reparations. The bill emphasizes not only financial restitution but also the need for public acknowledgment of historical wrongs, including a formal apology from the state regarding slavery and systemic discrimination in Minnesota.

Summary

House File 2397, known as the Minnesota Migration Act, seeks to establish an account for reparation grants aimed at American descendants of chattel slavery residing in Minnesota. The bill recognizes the historical injustices faced by these communities, including the economic advantages derived from slavery and systemic racism that has persisted post-abolition. It aims to create a framework for acknowledging these injustices and providing financial support to address the ongoing impact of such inequities.

Contention

The discourse surrounding HF2397 is likely to spark a variety of opinions among lawmakers and constituents. Supporters argue that acknowledging the harms of slavery is essential for fostering equity and rectifying historical injustices. Critics, however, may contend that reparations could create tension between different community groups and raise questions about the feasibility of implementing such a program. Furthermore, there may be debates over the criteria for who qualifies as a recipient of the reparation grants, along with the potential implications for state budgets and public policy.