What is the Matthew Shepard Hate Prevention Act (S.909)?

DESCRIPTION
The Matthew Shepard Hate Prevention Act (S.909) is a bill that strengthens current hate crimes legislation by making it easier to investigate and prosecute incidents that occur. The Act removes certain limitations that prevent greater federal involvement in the investigation and prosecution of bias-motivated crimes. It also expands the scope of federal hate crimes laws to include those motivated by the victim's disability, gender identity, gender, or sexual orientation. This bill would allow the federal government to play a greater role in providing resources and support to local law enforcement agencies addressing hate crimes. The bill strengthens current hate crimes laws by removing the "federally protected activity" limitation and expanding the definition of a "hate crime". South Asians have long grappled with bias and discrimination in the form of hate crimes and strong legislation will protect not only individuals affected by hate crimes but the entire community.

ADDITIONAL METADATA
Type: Publication
Language: English
Creator: South Asian Americans Leading Together (SAALT)

PROVENANCE
Collection: South Asian Americans Leading Together (SAALT) Materials
Item History: 2024-09-30 (created); 2024-09-30 (modified)

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