Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that amends the definition of a hate crime.

Highlights:

• Defines “hate crime” as a criminal offense against an individual or their property perpetrated by an individual motivated by his or her belief regarding the individual’s characteristics, including, but not limited to the following characteristics (Sec. 2):
• Disability;
• Gender identity;
• Race;
• Religion; or
• Sexual orientation.

• Increases the penalty classification for committing a hate crime to the following enhanced penalties (Sec. 2):
• A class C misdemeanor becomes a class B misdemeanor;
• A class B misdemeanor becomes a class A misdemeanor;
• A class A misdemeanor becomes a third degree felony;
• A third degree felony becomes a second degree felony; and
• A second degree felony becomes a first degree felony.

Full Bill Text