The Complexities of Reparations in California

California Governor Gavin Newsom declined to endorse the cash payments recommended by his state's reparations task force, which could reach as high as $1.2 million for a single recipient, stating that dealing with the legacy of slavery "is about much more than cash payments." While he applauded the task force's work, he declined to endorse any specific recommendations, though he pledged to continue to "advance systemic changes that ensure an inclusive and equitable future for all Californians." The task force's final recommendations will soon be submitted to the California Legislature, which will then decide whether to implement the measures and send them to Newsom's desk to be signed into law.