[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 119 (Thursday, September 19, 2002)]
[Senate]
[Page S8915]
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 
last 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 July 31, 2001 
in Browns Mills, NJ. Two white men attacked a black couple while they 
were sleeping in their home. The attackers beat the victims with 
baseball bats, causing severe cuts and broken bones. Neighbors said 
that the assailants had previously indicated their intention to ``beat 
up'' the victims, and used racial slurs to describe them.
  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 and changing 
current law, we can change hearts and minds as well.

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