(ConservativeSense.com) – California Democrats have set aside $12 million to pay reparations to black residents. The money will fund various race-based proposals that have yet to pass through the legislature, including subsidized property taxes. Some proposals are considered unconstitutional, and surveys show that most Golden State residents oppose them. Nevertheless, Governor Gavin Newsom has given the green light to establish the California American Freedman Affairs Agency, which will facilitate race-based advantage to black Californians in the future.
Polling by the Berkeley Institute of Governmental Studies shows that just 28% of Californians support racial reparations, while 59% oppose them. However, 60% believe slavery still impacts the lives of black Americans and holds them back. Nationwide, figures are similar. Nationally, 68% are against reparations, while 30% support them. Among blacks, 77% support the plans, while 17% oppose them.
Among the plans put forward are a $4,000 property tax subsidy and the expedition of professional licensing grants. The American Freedman Affairs Agency will administer the bureaucracy and decide who qualifies for the taxpayer-funded reparations.
Several legal experts, however, say many of the plans are illegal and will likely face challenges under federal law. They are particularly vulnerable, analysts say, given the US Supreme Court’s decision to ban affirmative action in educational institutions.
Andrew Quinio of the Pacific Legal Foundation law firm said allowing blacks to jump the line for work permits is a clear example of racial discrimination with a severe and significant impact on people’s lives. “That is plainly unconstitutional,” he said.
UCLA economics professor Lee Ohanian agrees and adds that race-based advantage is not only unconstitutional but a breach of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
Others suggest the plans are perfectly legal and in tune with previous policies giving tax breaks to the elderly or disabled. Mr. Quinio, however, insists the comparison is flawed. “Being African American is not a disability, so they aren’t on the same level,” he argued.
The Californians for Equal Rights campaign group says it will challenge the policies.
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