April 29, 2009

Today, U.S. Rep. Ed Perlmutter (CO-07) voted with a bipartisan majority of his colleagues in the House of Representatives to pass legislation authorizing the Attorney General to provide assistance in the criminal investigation of any crime determined to be a hate crime.

Perlmutter stated, “I proudly voted for this legislation which ensures justice for crime victims harmed because of race, color, religion, nationality, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability.”

“Hate crimes have no place in our communities. Colorado is fortunate enough to have one of the most progressive laws regarding biased motivated violence. We must hold accountable those who commit violent crimes meant to terrorize entire communities.”

“This legislation is designed to punish violent crimes, while still protecting free speech and religious speech. This bill is focused on giving state and local law enforcement the tools and resources they need to prevent and prosecute hate crimes. Passage of this legislation sends an important message Americas will not abide such violent acts and treatment of others just because of who they are.”

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