Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that authorizes additional penalties for perpetrators of hate crimes.

Highlights:

• Amends the definition of “hate crime” to specify it as a violent crime including second degree assault by mob that was determined beyond a reasonable doubt to be committed against an indvidual based on their (Article 22, Sec. 2):

• Race;

• Color;

• Religion;

• Sex;

• Gender;

• National origin;

• Sexual orientation; or

• Physical or mental disability.

• Authorizes additional increased penalties for individual perpetrators of hate crimes, including up to a $10,000 fine and additional 5 year max prison sentence (Article 22, Sec. 2).

• Specifies that this bill shall become effective upon passage and approval by the governor (Article 22, Sec. 3).

Full Bill Text