[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 78 (Friday, May 23, 2003)]
[Senate]
[Page S7125]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT ACT OF 2003

  Mr. SMITH. Mr. President, I rise today to speak about the need for 
hate crimes legislation. On May 1, 2003, 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 on February 
22, 2003. An Arab-American teenager in Yorba Linda, CA, was badly 
beaten by a group of teenagers with bats and golf clubs who were 
yelling racial slurs. He suffered head injuries, a broken jaw, and stab 
wounds. Metal plates had to be inserted into his face during 
reconstructive surgery, and his jaw was wired shut for nearly two 
months.
  I believe that government's first duty is to defend it 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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