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Local Law Enforcement Act of 2003

Date: Sept. 21, 2004
Location: Washington DC
Issues: Criminal Justice

CONGRESSIONAL RECORD
SENATE
Sept. 21, 2004

LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT ACT OF 2003

Mr. SMITH. Mr. President, I rise today to speak about the need for hate crimes legislation. On May 1, 2003, Senator Kennedy and I introduced the Local Law Enforcement Enhancement Act, a bill that would add new categories to current hate crimes law, sending a signal that violence of any kind is unacceptable in our society.

In September 2004, Michael Hughes, a 58-year old man, was arrested after he verbally assaulted a man he believed was gay, then slashed him repeatedly with a small knife. Upon checking his rap sheet, police discovered that Hughes was wanted in Baltimore for the 1974 Christmas Eve killing of another man.

I believe that the Government's first duty is to defend its citizens, to defend them against the harms that come out of hate. The Local Law Enforcement Enhancement Act is a symbol that can become substance. I believe that by passing this legislation and changing current law, we can change hearts and minds as well.

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