Bill > H4840

This bill establishes a special legislative commission called the Underground Railroad, Civil Rights and Black Heritage Museum and Cultural Center Task Force to study the creation of a museum and cultural center in Springfield, Massachusetts. The task force will investigate the history of slavery, the underground railroad, and civil rights in western Massachusetts, with two primary goals: to provide a healing process that addresses the negative impacts of slavery and discrimination, and to boost regional tourism. The commission will be composed of 12 members, including legislative leaders, state officials, local representatives, and cultural organization leaders. The task force will examine potential locations in Springfield, identify partner institutions, assess potential costs and funding mechanisms, and determine operational requirements. Members will have voting rights, with decisions made by simple majority, and the chairs can create subgroups and invite guests to meetings. The task force is required to file a comprehensive report with its findings and recommendations to the state legislature by July 31, 2027, and may seek assistance from design and consulting firms within budgetary constraints.

Committee on Tourism, Arts and Cultural Development (Joint)

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/194/H4840