Only 41 sterilization victims found so far in North Carolina

CHARLOTTE, N.C. -- North Carolina officials have tracked down less than four dozen of the thousands of residents forced to undergo sterilizations between 1929 and 1974.

The Charlotte Observer reported Sunday that state officials believe at least 1,500 of the 7,600 people sterilized under a state program are still alive. But only 41 files have been matched to living survivors or relatives of the dead.

North Carolina officials are considering compensating survivors. A task force Perdue created in March is supposed to figure out possible cash payments. It is expected to make its recommendation in February.

The Eugenics Board approved sterilizations for people who suffered from mental illness, epilepsy and those with low intelligence.

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Information from: The Charlotte Observer, http://www.charlotteobserver.com