By Bob Katzen

The House approved and sent to the Senate a bill creating a special commission to study the creation of an underground railroad, civil rights and black heritage museum in Springfield.

The measure says the museum will serve as “a catharsis important to alleviate some of the lingering negative effects of the institution of slavery and the discrimination practiced against African Americans, which had state and federal governmental statutory sanction.” It also notes the bill is designed to enhance regional tourism and attract conferences and conventions to the city of Springfield.

Rep. Bud Williams (D-Springfield), the sponsor of the measure, did not respond to repeated requests from Beacon Hill Roll Call to comment on his bill.