Ryus Law to clarify the Hass crimes law signed by the governor

When Hass drives violence, the Washington law will now recognize what it is: a hate crime. According to the office of 32nd district representative, this is Cindy Ryu, who sponsored a legislative template to strengthen hate crimes in Washington. House Bill 1052, who was signed by governor Bob Ferguson last week, helps to ensure justice for the victims who aim at who they are, said Ryu in a press release.

The new law makes it clear that a person not only commits a hate crime when bias is the only motive, but also if it is one of the several motives. The update – the standard for the breed, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability or other protected features in order to take into account crimes ensures that the public prosecutors can fold the perpetrators more effectively.

“This legislation ensures that hate is not hidden behind ambiguities,” said Ryu. “Too often violent actions that are rooted in bigotry are impunity because the legal threshold has been misunderstood. With this change we make it clear that if hatred is part of your motif, it is important and it is a crime.”

The draft law was introduced in response to concerns from prosecutors and civil rights representatives that Washington's earlier standard was too narrow, which in many cases has made conviction more difficult, the press release said. In reality, many hate crimes include “mixed motifs”, and this update reflects the complex nature of these crimes.

“If there is evidence that people have been victims through a hate crime – in whole or in part because of the prejudice of a defendant – these perpetrators have to be held accountable. The prosecutors need this legal solution to ensure that this is done,” said King County, Leesa Manion. “I appreciate the leadership of Rep. Cindy Ryu and Senator Manka Dhingra to account for people when they assume a place of hate.”

HB 1052 adopted the house on February 13 with a number of votes from 61 to 31 and the Senate on April 3 with a vote of 30-19.