New York City is one step closer to conducting its own study into the effects of slavery and possible reparations after the city council passed legislation on Thursday.

In recent years, various cities and states have approved task forces to examine the history of slavery in their jurisdiction in the past and potentially recommend reparations for descendants of slaves. The series of bills are designed to “acknowledge and address the legacy and impact of slavery and racial injustices in New York City” according to the city council.