House Passes New Democrat Coalition-Endorsed Bill to Study Societal Forces Affecting the Social Status of Black Men and Boys
Today, New Democrat Coalition (NDC) Chair Derek Kilmer (WA-06) and NDC Rep. Lucy McBath issued a statement following House passage of S. 2163, the Senate companion to the NDC-endorsed H.R. 1636, the Commission on the Social Status of Black Men and Boys Act. The legislation was introduced last year by a bipartisan group of Members, including NDC Reps. Lucy McBath (GA-06) and Cedric Richmond (LA-02). The bill will now be sent to President Trump for his signature.
"I am proud the New Democrat Coalition endorsed this legislation, co-led by New Dem Member Lucy McBath, and helped bring it to the floor,” said NDC Chair Derek Kilmer. “This bill is an important, actionable step forward to address racial inequities and promote better understanding in America. I am hopeful this bill will be signed quickly by President Trump."
“Almost eight years ago, my son, Jordan, was shot and killed while sitting in the back seat of the car at a gas station with his friends. A man didn’t like the “loud music” they were playing,” said NDC Rep. Lucy McBath. “On this day, while we look back at the life and legacy of John Lewis and remark at how far we’ve come, I must also look toward a future without my son and I see how far we still must go. This Commission will search for ways to address the hurdles and inequities that many Black men and boys continue to face, and help us all work together to create a better world for our children, for our grandchildren, and for families across America.”
The bill establishes a bipartisan commission made up of lawmakers and experts housed within the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights to study the societal forces that have a disproportionately impacted black males in America. The commission will examine such issues as mortality and homicide rates, arrest and incarceration rates, poverty, violence, fatherhood, mentorship, drug abuse, disparate income and wealth levels, school performance at various grade levels, and health. The commission is required to produce an annual report of recommendations and solutions that will be submitted to the president and cabinet secretaries, Congress, the chairs of the appropriate committees of jurisdiction, and the public.
The NDC has continued to call for Congressional action to help rectify the injustice many Black Americans are experiencing and help bring our communities together. A month ago, the NDC was proud to help pass the NDC endorsed the Justice in Policing Act. The NDC continues to seek ways to partner with the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC) and Black leaders to create a more racially just and equitable society.
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