Well, the statute would not necessarily cover that.
This would allow the Federal Government to partner with our State and local counterparts.
We do not think that there is any problem in that regard.
This is a bill that is designed to prosecute and hold people accountable for conduct, not for speech.
What is it that we consider important? How are we going to use Federal resources?
Yes, I think it has. I think that the legislation, wisely, has a certification provision in it.
We would like to have the ability to help our State and local partners.
No, I don't think so.
I strongly urge passage of The Matthew Shepard Hate Crimes Prevention Act of 2009.
But one has to look at the history, the unfortunate history, of our Nation.
What we're looking for here is Federal jurisdiction that would come into play if there was a demonstrated need.