[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 38 (Monday, March 10, 2003)]
[Senate]
[Page S3408]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS

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                   LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT ACT OF 2001

 Mr. SMITH. Mr. President, I rise today to speak about the need 
for hate crimes legislation. In the last Congress Senator Kennedy and I 
introduced the Local Law Enforcement Act, a bill that would add new 
categories to current hate crimes law, sending a signal that violence 
of any kind is unacceptable in our society.
  I would like to describe a terrible crime that occurred September 28, 
2001 in Falls Church, VA. A man of Middle-Eastern descent had to flee 
in his car from another driver, who repeatedly rammed and chased him in 
his vehicle. Police said that the assailant, a white male 50- to 60-
years-old, yelled racial slurs at the victim while attacking him with 
his car. The victim was able to escape without serious injuries.
  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 is 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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