Federal Hate Crimes Law

Federal Hate Crimes Law enhances penalties for crimes motivated by bias against a person's race, religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, or other protected characteristics. It allows the federal government to prosecute such crimes when they occur across states or involve certain federally protected activities, even if local authorities haven't charged hate-based motives. The law aims to address and deter bias-motivated violence, making it clear that crimes fueled by hatred or prejudice are taken seriously and can be punished more severely under federal jurisdiction.