Michigan House Votes to Extend LGBT Hate Crimes Protections

November 14, 2008

Nov. 13 the Michigan House voted to add “sexual identity or expression” in addition to disability to the state’s existing hate crimes legislation. The bill passed with an 82-12 vote and will next move on to the Senate for a vote. A statement released by the Triangle Foundation pointed out that there was a 133% increase in anti-LGBT hate crimes last year, and that “the need for this legislation is imperative to send the message that hate is not a Michigan value.” Related Media Coverage: The Associated Press — November 14, 2008 “Mich. House OKs broader hate crime law” http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/chi-ap-mi-biascrimes,0,1691325.story Statement from Triangle Foundation Director of Victim Services' Melissa Pope — November 14, 2008 “Hate Crimes Legislation Passes Michigan House!” http://www.chanceofgay.org/2008/11/hate-crimes-legislation-passes-michigan.html From www.glaad.org