Senate Democrats Pass Hate Crimes Bill

Senate Democrats passed the Matthew Shepard Local Law Enforcement Enhancement Act today, an important amendment that expands the definition of a hate crime to include those based on disability, gender, sexual orientation, and gender identity. This legislation will also provide federal assistance to states, local communities and Indian tribes to prosecute hate crimes.

The vote was 60 to 39, with Sen. John McCain (R-AZ) not voting. The "no" votes included several senators facing re-election next year, including Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-KY) and Sen. Larry Craig (R-ID), who recently pleaded guilty in a public bathroom sex scandal.

See the roll call here.

Comments (4) «

way to go Larry Craig !!!

Vote agains EVERY gay right legislation that comes along.

Solicit sex from a man in a restroom.

Resign your Senate seat

Resign your resignation

Vote against hate crimes legislation.

How pathetic is this blow-hard closet case??

1

JohnPitt on October 1, 2007 at 11:38 AM

I think it is about time that the American people began to truly address the 'civil rights' of homosexual people. It is great to see that the Democrats are pioneering change and recognising that to discriminate against an individual on the basis of the sexual orientation is abuse of civil rights.

2

Benjamin_Walker on October 5, 2007 at 02:56 PM

Yea, Ken Salazar finally voted right. Go Colorado

3

4u2love on October 6, 2007 at 08:46 PM

Wow. they passed this act now. well better late then never.

4

Swan on October 7, 2007 at 01:19 PM

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