Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that establishes sentencing guidelines for anyone convicted of a hate crime.

Highlights:

• Establishes that if a defendant is found to have intentionally targeted a specific victim or group of victims, a judge imposing sentence may do the following, including, but not limited to (Sec. 1):

• If the offence is a misdemeanor, impose a sentence between 3 and 12 months and a fine no greater than $5,000;

• If the offense is a misdemeanor of a high and aggravated nature, impose a sentence between 6 and 12 months and a fine no greater than $5,000; or

• If the offense is a felony, impose a sentence no less than 2 years.

• Requires the judge to specify the amount of increase of the sentence is based on the application of this Code (Sec. 1).

Full Bill Text