California Governor Gavin Newsom vetoed a bill aimed at helping Black families reclaim or be compensated for property unjustly taken by the government through eminent domain. The bill created a process for families to file claims if they believed their property was seized due to discriminatory motives. However, Newsom cited that the bill was not feasible as it relied on a non-existent state agency to carry out its provisions.
The veto was a setback for a package of reparations bills supported by the California Legislative Black Caucus, including proposals to formally apologize for slavery and address hair discrimination. Democratic state Sen. Steven Bradford introduced the eminent domain bill following a case in 2022 where a Black couple’s beachfront property was returned a century after being seized by eminent domain.
While Bradford also introduced bills to create a reparations agency and fund, these were blocked from reaching a final vote by the Black caucus. The caucus raised concerns about lack of legislative oversight and the administration’s efforts to redirect the agency bill to fund a study at California State University.
The Department of Finance opposed the eminent domain bill due to unknown implementation costs, estimated to range from hundreds of thousands to low millions annually. Newsom’s office declined to comment on the agency and fund proposals, stating they typically do not publicly weigh in on pending legislation.
Overall, the veto highlights ongoing challenges in addressing historical racial injustices and achieving reparations for marginalized communities in California.
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