House Votes to Expand Definition of Hate Crimes

Since the 1990's, the number of hate crimes has been in an upward trend. Also the rise of crimes motivated by one's sexual orientation. Currently, a hate crime with federal jurisdiction is a crime motivated by the victim's race, age, nationality, or religion. This new bill hopes to change this to include safeguard the rights of those who are homosexual, lesbian and transgendered. Five Million dollars per year would be allotted to Justice department to fund investigations in circumstances such as these hate crimes.


In addition, included in the bill is a $681 billion dollar military policy. This includes authorization of military pay, weapons programs and other necessities. Some Republicans find this an outrage, claiming an important bill is being overshadowed by this small provision on hate crimes. Several Republicans denied the passing of this bill simply because of this added legislature on hate crimes.


The bill was approved in the House of Representatives 281 to 146. The President has shown support for this bill and the change on the definition of hate crime. This weekend Obama plans to make a speech at the Capitol to the Human Rights Campaign on issues similar to those stated. In the past, similar bills have been brought up, but have failed to be passed into law in the end. However this bill has high hopes, and "solid" support in the Senate.


Personally, I am in full support of this provision. The United States has always claimed to be equality. I think it is time the United States enforced such a policy which expands the consequences of crimes based on sexual orientation into the definition of hate crimes. Strategically, it was wise of the Democrats to pair such a provision with a cause so close to many Republicans heart. While I don't believe such large amounts of military spending is necessary at the moment, with such a compromise, hopefully it may sway enough Republicans to pass the bill. When the Senate finally votes on this bill, I hope that it is passed without too much fuss or objections.

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/10/09/us/politics/09hate.html