Bill > SB5038

This bill clarifies and updates Washington state's hate crime law by expanding the definition of a hate crime to include actions committed "in whole or in part" because of a perception of another person's protected characteristics, which include race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender expression or identity, or mental, physical, or sensory disability. The bill specifies that a hate crime can involve assaulting another person, damaging or destroying property, or threatening a specific person or group in a way that creates reasonable fear of harm. The legislation provides specific examples of actions that may be considered evidence of a hate crime, such as burning a cross, defacing property with hate symbols, or placing a noose on someone's property. Importantly, the bill clarifies that it is not a defense if the perpetrator was mistaken about the victim's protected characteristics, and it defines key terms like "gender expression or identity" and "sexual orientation". A hate crime under this bill is classified as a class C felony, and the law emphasizes that these provisions do not expand civil rights beyond existing protections. The bill aims to provide clearer guidance for prosecuting hate-motivated offenses and protecting vulnerable communities from targeted harassment and violence.

Justice

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=5038&Year=2025&Initiative=false