Patrick Leahy: “I rise today to note my deep disappointment that hate crimes legislation has been dropped from the Department of Defense…”

“I rise today to note my deep disappointment that hate crimes legislation has been dropped from the Department of Defense authorization bill in conference, despite the fact that both the Senate and the House have voted to include it. This is a major step backward for our commitment to civil rights. The Senate passed the Local Law Enforcement Enhancement Act of 2000, sponsored by Senators Kennedy and Gordon Smith, on June 20 by a strong bipartisan vote of 57-42. This legislation would strengthen current law by making it easier for federal authorities to investigate and prosecute crimes based on race, color, religion, and national origin. It also focuses the attention and resources of the federal government on the problem of hate crimes committed against people because of their sexual orientation, gender, or disability. The Senate bill also shows full respect for principles of federalism. It strengthens Federal jurisdiction over hate crimes as a back-up, but not a substitute, for state and local law enforcement. It has received strong bipartisan support from state and local law enforcement organizations across the country, support that is particularly significant to me as a former prosecutor.”