Confronting and Correcting Historical Injustices Act
- Sponsor
- Rep. DeSaulnier, Mark [D-CA-10]
- Committees
- Armed Services Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Sep 24, 2026
Bottom line
This bill creates a new federal commission to systematically investigate and recommend actions for historical injustices and discriminatory acts by federal agencies, aiming to provide avenues for correction beyond traditional pardon processes.
What it actually does
This bill establishes the Commission for Review and Correction of Historical Injustices, tasked with identifying and reviewing instances of historical injustice and discrimination by Federal agencies. The Commission is mandated to create a public submission mechanism, review submissions, and provide quarterly reports to Congress with recommendations for legislative or executive action, including alternatives to the pardon process.
Proponents argue
Proponents argue that the bill provides a crucial mechanism for accountability and restorative justice, addressing long-standing grievances and systemic discrimination by federal agencies that have gone unaddressed. It offers a structured approach to acknowledge past wrongs and propose concrete steps for correction, fostering trust between the government and its citizens, particularly marginalized communities and service members.
Opponents contend
Opponents might express concerns about the broad scope of 'historical injustice' and 'discriminatory act,' potentially leading to an expansive and costly commission with an undefined endpoint. They might also question the practicality of reviewing and correcting historical events, the potential for political weaponization of the commission's findings, or argue that existing judicial and administrative processes are sufficient for addressing grievances.
The bill is short and relatively easy to read, allowing a reader to quickly grasp its core purpose and structure.
Section 2(a)
Establishment of the Commission for Review and Correction of Historical Injustices
This provision formally creates a new federal body named the 'Commission for Review and Correction of Historical Injustices.' This Commission is the central mechanism through which the bill's objectives will be carried out, providing a dedicated entity for its specified duties.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue that establishing a dedicated commission is essential to ensure a focused and systematic approach to reviewing historical injustices, rather than relying on ad-hoc or fragmented efforts.
Critics contend
Critics might argue that creating a new commission adds another layer of bureaucracy and expense, potentially duplicating efforts of existing civil rights enforcement agencies or historical review bodies.
Tradeoffs
The tradeoff is between the perceived need for a dedicated, comprehensive review body versus concerns about government expansion and potential overlap with existing mechanisms.
Section 2(b)
Mandates for Identifying and Reviewing Historical Injustices and Discrimination
This section outlines the core responsibilities of the Commission. It must identify and review all instances of 'historical injustice,' as well as specific instances where a Federal agency discriminated against individuals or groups protected by the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Rehabilitation Act, or members of the uniformed services. It also requires the Commission to identify cases where discriminated individuals have not received compensation.
Section 2(b)(4)-(5)
Public Input and Review Process
The Commission is required to establish a public mechanism within 90 days for individuals to submit and be heard on instances of discrimination by federal agencies. After a submission, the Commission must review it or decline consideration within 180 days. This ensures public participation and a structured response to individual grievances.
Section 2(c)
Structure and Expertise of Commission Members
The Commission will consist of eight members, with two appointed by each of the four congressional leaders (Speaker/Minority Leader of House, Majority/Minority Leader of Senate). Members must be civil rights leaders, historians, lawyers, or judges with expertise in civil rights, social justice, various legal fields, or history. Appointments are to be made within 60 days, and members serve 3-year terms.
Section 2(d), (e), (f), (g)
Operational Structure, Consultation, Research Powers, and Reporting Requirements
This set of provisions details how the Commission will function. It will have a Director and at least 11 staff members with civil service protection. The Commission can consult with various experts and directly impacted individuals. It has research capabilities, including the power to issue subpoenas to federal agencies. Crucially, it must report to Congress quarterly, including instances reviewed and recommendations for legislative or executive action, and information on alternatives to the pardon process.