The so called Hate Crimes Bill, which creates new categories of victims is close to becoming law. This is not a good development as now certain groups, will be more protected than others.

‘Thought Crimes’ Bill Advances

Why is the press remaining mostly silent about the so-called “hate crimes law” that passed in the House on April 29? The Local Law Enforcement Hate Crimes Prevention Act passed in a 249-175 vote (17 Republicans joined with 231 Democrats). These Democrats should have been tested on their knowledge of the First Amendment, equal protection of the laws (14th Amendment), and the prohibition of double jeopardy (no American can be prosecuted twice for the same crime or offense). If they had been, they would have known that this proposal, now headed for a Senate vote, violates all these constitutional provisions.

This bill would make it a federal crime to willfully cause bodily injury (or try to) because of the victim’s actual or perceived “race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or disability” – as explained on the White House Web site, signaling the president’s approval. A defendant convicted on these grounds would be charged with a “hate crime” in addition to the original crime, and would get extra prison time.

This law if passed would set a bad precedent by creating special groups. Crimes committed against these special groups would be punished more severe than crimes against non special groups. This is anti-American in my opinion and since some people will be more protected by the law than others.