    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: WILLIAM J. CLINTON (1999, Book II)]
    [August 4, 1999]
    [Pages 1380-1381]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on Proposed Hate Crimes Legislation
    August 4, 1999

        Two weeks ago I was glad to see the Senate pass S. 622, the
    important hate crimes legislation I supported with a bipartisan
    coalition in Congress. But there is much more work to be done.

    [[Page 1381]]

    Today the House Judiciary Committee will hold hearings on hate crimes.
    That is welcome news, but it must lead to the entire House's
    consideration and passage of strong, effective hate crimes legislation
    and ultimately to enactment of a hate crimes law.
        Effective legislation must accomplish three objectives. First, it
    must remove serious jurisdictional limitations which require proof that
    victims were attacked because they were engaging in particular
    activities. Second, it must expand Federal coverage for violent hate
    crimes based on sexual orientation, gender, or disability. There is no
    question that innocent people have been targeted and attacked and in
    some cases even killed solely because of their sexual orientation,
    gender, or disability. Such hate crimes must be covered by any
    legislation passed by the Congress. Third, it must recognize that State
    and local authorities should continue to prosecute the great majority of
    hate crimes and that Federal jurisdiction should be exercised only when
    it is necessary to achieve justice in a particular case. Any bill that
    does not include these three elements falls far short of what America
    needs in our battle against hate.
        No American should have to suffer the violence of a hate crime.
    Unfortunately, many do, and therefore we must work together to ensure
    that all Americans receive greater protection. This should not be a
    partisan issue. It is a national concern requiring a national response
    in the form of strong hate crimes legislation. I call on the House of
    Representatives to meet its responsibility in combating violence that is
    fueled by hate and to complete what the Senate has begun. If we work
    together, we have it within our grasp to enact a bill that will take a
    very strong stand against those who perpetrate crimes based on prejudice
    and hate. We must not let this opportunity pass us by.