LANSING (WKZO-AM) — The Michigan Senate has approved legislation that would establish a commission to examine civil rights deficiencies for African-Americans in the state.
It would be part of a state department that currently has sections for Latinos, Asians and Middle Easterners.
Sen. Rick Jones, R-Grand Ledge, calls the omission of African-Americans a glaring oversight.
“One of my African-American constituents contacted me and asked me if I would fix this oversight,” Jones said. “I said absolutely.”
The commissioners would report directly to Gov. Rick Snyder.
“There’s very little of any cost to it,” Jones said. “Basically, the members are appointed by the governor and they get a tiny stipend for gasoline if they go to the meetings.”
The bill is being debated in the House. It’s not clear yet if Snyder will sign the legislation if it reaches his desk.
– Anthony Pollreisz
