Bill > SB634

This bill adds a new section to Pennsylvania's criminal code that specifically addresses hate crimes targeting law enforcement officers and first responders. The legislation defines a hate crime as an offense committed against a law enforcement officer or first responder that is motivated by malicious intent due to their employment status. Such offenses can include various criminal acts under different sections of the criminal code, such as property destruction, criminal trespass, or other offenses. If the underlying offense is a summary offense, the hate crime would be classified as a third-degree misdemeanor; for other offenses, the hate crime would be classified one degree higher than the original offense. The bill also requires the Pennsylvania Sentencing Commission to develop sentencing guidelines that provide enhancements for these specific hate crimes. The legislation defines key terms like "first responder" (including firefighters and emergency medical personnel), "law enforcement officer" (based on the existing definition of "peace officer"), and "malicious intent" (actions motivated by hatred toward the victim's professional status). The new law will take effect 60 days after its passage.

Justice

https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=S&type=B&bn=634