[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 162 (Wednesday, November 28, 2001)]
[Senate]
[Page S12099]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                   LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT ACT OF 2001

  Mr. SMITH of Oregon. Madam President, I rise today to speak about 
hate crimes legislation I introduced with Senator Kennedy in March of 
this year. The Local Law Enforcement Act of 2001 would add new 
categories to current hate crimes legislation sending a signal that 
violence of any kind is unacceptable in our society.
  I would like to describe a terrible crime that occurred May 16, 1995 
in Eau Claire, WI. A man was beaten by another man who used anti-gay 
slurs during the assault, and claimed the victim made homosexual 
advances toward him. The assailant, Chad A. Johnson, 19, was charged 
with attempted first-degree intentional homicide under the State hate 
crime law. I believe that Government's first duty is to defend its 
citizens, to defend them against the harms that come out of hate. The 
Local Law Enforcement Enhancement Act of 2001 is now a symbol that can 
become substance. I believe that by passing this legislation, we can 
change hearts and minds as well.

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