Local Law Enforcement Enhancement Act of 2005

LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT ENHANCEMENT ACT OF 2005

Mr. SMITH. Mr. President, I rise today to speak about the need for hate crimes legislation. Each Congress, Senator Kennedy and I introduce hate crimes legislation that would add new categories to current hate crimes law, sending a signal that violence of any kind is unacceptable in our society. Likewise, each Congress I have come to the floor to highlight a separate hate crime that has occurred in our country.

Late last year, two gay men were attacked when attempting to leave a night club in Tampa, Florida. The men were repeatedly punched and kicked in the head by two assailants. Authorities in Florida have designated this case as a hate crime because the apparent motivation for the vicious attack was the sexual orientation of the two victims.

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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