Bill > S2134

This bill establishes a permanent commission on the status of people who practice Islam in Massachusetts, consisting of 11 members appointed by various state officials, including the governor, attorney general, state secretary, and chairs of legislative committees on racial equity. The commission's primary purpose is to serve as a resource for the commonwealth on issues affecting American Muslim communities, with responsibilities including promoting research, informing the public and leaders about Muslim issues, fostering community unity, serving as a liaison between government and Muslim organizations, recommending qualified Muslims for government positions, and assessing state programs and proposed legislation for their impact on Muslim residents. The commission will be required to submit an annual report by June 2nd and will specifically study trends of Islamophobia and discrimination, evaluate existing efforts to combat such issues, identify best practices from other jurisdictions, and recommend strategies to protect residents. Members will serve three-year terms without compensation but will be reimbursed for expenses, and the commission will have the power to hold public meetings, accept donations, and employ staff, including an executive director appointed for a three-year term. The bill specifies that the commission will be established on December 1, 2026, with initial members appointed by that date, and will operate as a mechanism to promote civil rights and inclusion of American Muslims in Massachusetts.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/S2134