MARYLAND HUMAN RELATIONS COMMISSION


ORIGIN & FUNCTIONS

The Human Relations Commission originated in 1927 as the Interracial Commission (Chapter 559, Acts of 1927). In 1943, it became the Commission to Study Problems Affecting the Colored Population (Chapter 431, Acts of 1943). Renamed the Commission on Interracial Problems and Relations in 1951, it was reorganized as the Human Relations Commission in 1969 (Chapter 548, Acts of 1951; Chapter 83, Acts of 1968).

The Commission seeks to eliminate discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion, sex, marital status, physical or mental handicap, and age. Maryland anti-discrimination statutes for housing, employment, and public accommodations are administered and enforced by the Commission. It also initiates and investigates complaints of discrimination in State government agencies.

In addition to other relief, the Commission can issue a cease and desist order if evidence shows that a respondent has engaged in a discriminatory act. In cases of employment discrimination, it may award up to two years of back pay.

To evaluate the merits of a complaint, the Commission may conduct public hearings, administer oaths, and issue subpoenas. It also is authorized to compel attendance or testimony of witnesses and oversee exhibits of books, papers, records, and documents relevant or necessary for legal proceedings.

Commission work for fair employment practices is supplemented by a deferral relationship and funding from the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. Similarly, through cooperative agreements, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development funds case processing and community education for the Commission's fair housing efforts.

Nine members constitute the Commission. They are appointed to six-year terms by the Governor with Senate advice and consent. The Governor names the Executive Director (Code 1957, Art. 49B).

Maryland Independent Agencies


Maryland Manual On-Line

 Maryland Manual On-Line, 1998

July 10, 1998   
Note: In this past edition of Maryland Manual, some links are to external sites.  View the current Manual


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