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House Passes Hate Crimes Amendment

By: Tom Udall
By: Tom Udall
Date: Sept. 14, 2005
Location: Washington, DC
Issues: Criminal Justice


HOUSE PASSES HATE CRIMES AMENDMENT
September 14, 2005

WASHINGTON - U.S. Representative Tom Udall, D-N.M., voted today with the majority of the House to expand the definition of "hate crime" to include a violent act causing death or bodily injury because of the actual or perceived gender, disability or sexual orientation of the victim. It also would permit federal prosecutors to pursue a hate crime case if local authorities failed to act, and provide additional funds for local officials who are investigating a hate crime.

"Expanding the definition of hate crimes will allow the federal government to assist local law enforcement who have repeatedly called on Congress to pass this legislation," Udall said. "Everyone should be guaranteed the freedom from attacks motivated by bigotry. I am hopeful the Senate will act on this measure as soon as possible."

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http://www.tomudall.house.gov/issues2.cfm?id=11107

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