Rep. Watson Coleman Announces Introduction of Bipartisan, Bicameral Civil Rights Cold Case Records Collection Reauthorization Act
Today, Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) announced the introduction of the bipartisan, bicameral Civil Rights Cold Case Records Collection Reauthorization Act of 2025.
Rep. Watson Coleman is joined by Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) and Rep. Mike Lawler (NY-17) in the House, with companion legislation led by Senator Jon Ossoff (D-GA) and Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX).
The Civil Rights Cold Case Records Review Board was established by Congress in 2018 to resolve unsolved criminal investigations from the Civil Rights Era. The Board is a nonpartisan organization, led by a panel of private citizens appointed by the President.
The bill introduced today would extend the authorization of the Review Board for another four years, allowing it to complete its work uncovering information related to these unsolved cases, and afford family members of the victims a measure of closure.
“In the years since its creation, the Cold Case Records Review Board has made remarkable progress in shedding light on some of the darkest moments in our nation’s history,” said Rep. Watson Coleman. “Working without partisan bias or ideological inclination, the Review Board has proven indispensable in providing clarity and closure for the victims’ families, and the communities roiled by these terrible events. Before we can finally turn the page on this dark chapter in American history, the Review Board must complete its work. This bipartisan bill with my colleagues across the aisle and across the Capitol will allow the Board to do just that. I strongly encourage leadership in both chambers to take up this legislation to once and for all lay these cases to rest.”
“As a former FBI agent and federal prosecutor, I’ve spent my career pursuing the truth and delivering justice. The families who lost loved ones to racial violence during the Civil Rights Era have waited far too long for answers. Reauthorizing the Civil Rights Cold Case Records Review Board ensures that critical investigations are completed, the pursuit of justice continues, and that we honor our obligation to confront and correct historic wrongs,” said Rep. Fitzpatrick (PA-1).
“I’m proud to join Congresswoman Watson Coleman in reintroducing this bill. These cases represent a painful and important part of our nation’s history, and we have a responsibility to ensure they’re not forgotten. Extending the work of the Civil Rights Cold Case Records Review Board helps us continue the process of reviewing these records carefully and transparently. It’s about doing our part to support the pursuit of truth to right the wrongs of our past and move forward with historical clarity,” said Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17).
“For too long, families of Civil Rights cold case victims have waited for answers and justice. Our bipartisan bill is an opportunity to pursue justice and truth on behalf of those who were killed. There’s no expiration date on justice; that’s why this effort must continue,” Sen. Ossoff said.
Cases published by the Civil Rights Cold Case Records Review Board can be found here.