MARYLAND, United States — Following a decision by lawmakers on Wednesday, the state of Maryland in the United States (US) will create a commission to study potential slavery reparations in the state.

According to a report from the Associated Press, lawmakers overrode a previous veto issued by Democratic Governor Wes Moore, described as disappointing.

The report detailed what potential reparations could look like, including “official statements of apology, monetary compensation, property tax rebates, social service assistance, as well as licensing and permit fee waivers and reimbursement… assistance with making a down payment on a home, business incentives, childcare, debt forgiveness and tuition payment waivers for higher education.”

Moore is Maryland’s only Black governor, in a state with one of the highest percentages of Black people. He had defended his decision in a veto letter, maintaining that enough study had been done on slavery, and it was time to “focus on the work”, the report said.

Lawmakers, however, decided that the study was needed to further decision-making.

AP cited Democratic Charles Sydnor, who said, “This topic isn’t easy, but, again, without formal study, reparations risk being dismissed as symbolic or unconstitutional, regardless of moral merit.”

Moore expressed disagreement with the veto but willingness to work to further the cause.