The bill requires the state historical society (society), commonly
known as history Colorado, to conduct a study to determine any historical and ongoing effects of slavery and subsequent systemic racism on Black Coloradans that may be attributed to Colorado state policies, and to identify measures that are consistent with the constitution to address those effects. The society may enter into an agreement with a third-party entity to conduct all or parts of the study. As part of the study, the society shall conduct at least 2 public comment sessions for members of the public to provide input to the society related to the study. The society is required to submit a report to the general assembly and governor and make the report available on a publicly accessible webpage of the society's website.
The bill establishes the Black Coloradan racial equity steering
committee (steering committee) to provide input to the society about the study, including guidance about the research, economic analysis, and recommendations. The steering committee also assists the society in conducting the public comment sessions. The society shall provide the steering committee with regular periodic updates about the status of the study. The steering committee may submit to the society comments and recommendations for inclusion in the society's report to the general assembly and governor. After the study is completed, the steering committee shall work as necessary to effectuate implementation of the recommendations in the study report.
The bill is contingent upon the society receiving $100,000 of gifts,
grants, or donations for the purpose of conducting the study.
