A North Dakota lawmaker who is a member of the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians introduced a bill to create a d human rights commission.

State Sen. Dennis Bercier, a Democrat, said the panel would have the authority to investigate discriminatory practices, intervene in disputes and compile reports. He said he has experienced discrimination based on his race.

Critics say the commission would duplicate the work of the Labor Department's human rights division.

Get the Story:
Human rights commission supporters say it will help raise diversity awareness (AP 2/2)