Bill > SB74

This bill appropriates $300 million from the Oklahoma State Treasury to the Oklahoma Department of Commerce to establish a reparations program for survivors and descendants of victims of the Tulsa Race Massacre, a devastating event of racial violence that occurred in Tulsa from May 31 to June 1, 1921, which resulted in significant destruction of property and loss of life in the predominantly Black Greenwood District. The bill creates a Tulsa Race Massacre Compensation Revolving Fund to administer these reparations and establishes a nine-member committee to provide guidance, including representatives from the state Senate and House, a member appointed by the Oklahoma Department of Commerce, and six additional community-oriented individuals such as historians, clergy, attorneys, and advocates. The Department of Commerce will work with nonprofit organizations and state agencies to develop an application process for survivors and descendants to receive compensation, with the fund being a continuous, non-fiscal-year-limited account that can receive appropriations and other designated funds. The bill is set to become effective on July 1, 2025, and includes an emergency clause to emphasize its immediate importance for public peace and safety, reflecting the long-overdue recognition of historical injustices against the Black community in Tulsa.

Budget and Finance

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=sb74&Session=2500