California Governor Gavin Newsom has faced criticism from Republican Assembly Leader James Gallagher for declining to endorse specific reparations payment recommendations made by a state task force. The task force, created by Newsom in September 2020, proposed payments of up to $1.2 million to black residents as compensation for historical slavery and discrimination.
Gallagher described the governor's position as a 'lose-lose' situation, suggesting that Newsom would anger part of his base regardless of his decision. He argued that it would require 'absurd mental gymnastics' to require California taxpayers, including new immigrants and low-income workers, to pay for wrongs committed by other states over 150 years ago.
Newsom, who established the task force following the death of George Floyd, stated that dealing with the legacy of slavery is 'about much more than cash payments.' He emphasized ongoing efforts to advance systemic changes in voting, law enforcement, housing, education, and healthcare, but stopped short of endorsing the financial reparations.
The task force's final report, due to the state legislature by July 1, includes compensation estimates for various forms of discrimination, such as over-policing, discriminatory lending, and health disparities. A lifelong black California resident aged 71 or older could receive over $1.2 million under the proposal.
