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ADA Updates

Pass Hate Crime Legislation Today
Posted Dec 01 2009 at 11:05 AM
Updates >>

UPDATE:  Victory!  The House passed the Local Law Enforcement Hate Crimes Prevention Act last night.

Current law provides that a hate crime occurs when the victim is singled out because of race, color, religion, national origin and gender. The current bill, HR. 1913 Local Law Enforcement Hate Crimes Prevention Act of 2009 (LLEHCPA), would expand that law to cover crimes committed based on a victim’s sexual orientation, gender identity or physical or mental disability.

HR. 1913 will be considered under a closed rule that does not allow amendments on the floor. 
Under the bill, crimes of violence in which fire, a gun or a bomb are used and that are motivated by gender identity or sexual orientation would be punishable by a fine and up to 10 years in prison.  Federal prosecutors would have to get permission from the Attorney General or another senior Justice Department official before bringing such a case.
For several offenses, including kidnapping and murder, the bill would provide for up to a life sentence in prison.

Also, the bill would facilitate the coordination of federal assistance to state and local law enforcement agencies.  Also, the Department of Justice would award grants to state and local programs designed to combat hate crimes committed by juveniles.

The bill includes adequate protections for people exercising their First Amendment rights.

ADAction:  The bill was reported out of the House Judiciary Committee on April 23 by a vote of 15-12 after the Democratic majority defeated more than 26 weakening amendments.  The bill has 120 cosponsors.  Our time is now, contact your Representative (202) 225-3121 and urge him/her to vote for HR 1913, LLEHCPA.