H.R. 40In committeeRights & liberties
Bill would form slavery reparations study commission
Data as of July 11, 2026
HR 40 would create a federal commission to study the history of slavery and recommend—but not enact—possible remedies to Congress.50-second read · 5 questions answered below
Decoded
What does this do?
This bill would set up a 15-member federal commission to study the history of slavery in the U.S., post-slavery discrimination such as redlining and unequal access to programs like Social Security and the GI Bill, and how those harms may still affect African Americans today. The commission would then advise Congress on possible responses, which could include a formal apology, financial compensation, or other remedies. The commission cannot create any policy or provide any compensation on its own.
Who does it affect?
The commission would have 15 members and up to 18 months to complete its work. It would shut down 90 days after delivering its report to Congress.
Why does it matter?
Congress would receive a research-based set of recommendations and could choose to act on them or not. Without this commission, no formal federal body exists to study these questions and present options to lawmakers.
What does it cost, and who pays?
- Up to $20M authorized
- Funds commission ops
Where does it stand?
- Introduced
- House committee — You are here
- House vote
- Senate
- President's desk
Right now: a House committee is reviewing it. If the Senate changes it, it goes back to the House before reaching the President.
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How it's being covered
Real reporting on this bill, labeled by each outlet's political lean.
- Reparations bill returns to Congress as Trump leads charge against racial equity in government
nbcnews.comFeb 12, 2025Leans left
- Far-left House Dem pushes land reparations for descendants of American slaves
foxnews.comMar 16, 2026Leans right
Lean labels describe the news outlet, not this bill or any party. Ratings by AllSides.
Official title
Commission to Study and Develop Reparation Proposals for African Americans Act
- Introduced:
- January 3, 2025
- Latest action:
- January 3, 2025
Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.
Read the official bill on Congress.govMake the call
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