Bill > SB575

This bill amends Pennsylvania's existing laws on hate crimes by updating terminology and expanding the scope of protected characteristics in ethnic intimidation statutes. Specifically, the bill changes the term "ethnic intimidation" to "hate-based intimidation" and adds intellectual and physical disability to the list of protected characteristics alongside race, color, religion, and national origin. The modifications mean that a person can be charged with hate-based intimidation if they commit an offense (such as assault, property destruction, or criminal trespass) with malicious intention targeting an individual or group based on the expanded list of characteristics. The bill also updates corresponding civil rights provisions to reflect these changes, allowing victims of such hate-based intimidation to seek civil remedies like injunctions or damages. The legislative change will take effect 60 days after enactment, providing a clear pathway for prosecuting and addressing hate-motivated offenses with a more inclusive definition of protected groups.

Justice

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=S&type=B&bn=575