SENATE DOCKET, NO.                 FILED ON: 12/17/2024

SENATE  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  .  No. 2995

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts

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In the One Hundred and Ninety-Third General Court
(2023-2024)

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Resolve to establish a commission to investigate and study the feasibility of establishing a Massachusetts Cabo Verdean Cultural Center.

Resolved, that there shall be a special commission to investigate and study the feasibility of establishing a statewide Massachusetts Cabo Verdean cultural center in the city of Boston to represent the over 200 years history of Cabo Verdeans in the commonwealth. The commission shall investigate and study: (i) potential organizational structures for the center, including, but not limited to, the establishment of a nonprofit organization to oversee construction and management of the center; and (ii) the cost of each potential organizational structure.

The commission shall consist of: 3 members of the senate appointed by the senate president, who represent a district with a significant population of Cabo Verdean residents; 1 member appointed by the minority leader of the senate; 3 members of the house of representatives appointed by the speaker of the house of representatives, who represent a district with a significant population of Cabo Verdean residents; 1 member appointed by the minority leader of the house of representatives; 1 member appointed by the mayor of the city of Boston; and 1 member appointed by the governor. The commission shall elect 2 co-chairs from among its members. The co-chairs may select, with the approval of a majority of appointed members to the commission, not more than 15 additional members to serve on the commission; provided, however, that such additional members shall reside in or represent municipalities with a significant number of Cabo Verdean residents or heritage.

All appointments to the commission shall be made not later than March 31, 2025. The commission shall hold its first meeting not later than April 15, 2025. The commission shall report its findings and recommendations, including any legislation to carry out its recommendations, to the clerks of the senate and house of representatives not later than December 31, 2026.