Reparations bills face concerns from Gov. Gavin Newsom in legislature’s final stretch

By Stephen Hobbs and Nicole Nixon | Sacramento Bee Two bills meant to help repair harms committed against Black Californians are facing headwinds in the waning days of the state’s legislative session, including from Gov. Gavin Newsom. The measures, Senate Bills 1331 and 1403, would create a new state agency and also a fund to help implement policies recommended last year by a first-in-the nation state task force on reparations. Sen. Steven Bradford, D-Gardena, a member of the task force, wanted to bring up the bills on Wednesday. But the bills have stalled in the Assembly, and sources with knowledge of their status said the governor’s office has financial concerns that could affect whether or not Newsom signs them. Assemblywoman Lori Wilson, a Suisun City Democrat and chair of the Legislative Black Caucus, said Thursday evening lawmakers were trying to confirm if they had enough votes for the measures. “I have the votes, unless someone on the floor is actively working against me,” Bradford said Friday through a spokesperson. Read more at: Sacramento Bee Related