Bill > H4351

This bill establishes the Massachusetts Office of Freedmen Affairs as a new state agency dedicated to addressing the historical and ongoing marginalization of American Freedmen (defined as descendants of persons emancipated from slavery in the United States). The office will be led by a director appointed by the governor for a 5-year term and will have responsibilities including providing policy guidance, advocating for equitable resource allocation, developing economic opportunity programs, conducting genealogy research, and partnering with public and private organizations to support American Freedmen residents. The director will be tasked with developing strategic initiatives to improve social determinants of health, enhance access to state programs, and conduct policy analysis to ensure state policies align with the needs of American Freedmen. The office will be funded through annual state appropriations and may also accept additional gifts, grants, and donations. Each year, the office must submit an annual report to the governor detailing its activities, analyzing the status of American Freedmen in Massachusetts, and recommending legislative or policy changes to address ongoing inequities. The bill emphasizes the importance of preserving heritage, addressing systemic challenges, and creating targeted support for this historically marginalized community.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H4351