[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 26 (Wednesday, March 3, 2004)]
[Senate]
[Page S2103]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT ACT OF 2003

  Mr. SMITH. Mr. President, I speak about the need for hate crimes 
legislation. On May 1, 2003, Senator Kennedy and I introduced the Local 
Law Enforcement Enhancement 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.
  In February, 2003, in Antioch, CA, a 15-year-old teen was charged 
with assault and battery and for committing a hate crime. He viciously 
assaulted and taunted another teenager because he believed he was gay.
  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. By 
passing this legislation and changing current law, we can change hearts 
and minds as well.

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