    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: WILLIAM J. CLINTON (2000, Book I)]
    [June 20, 2000]
    [Pages 1193-1194]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on Senate Action on Hate Crimes Legislation
    June 20, 2000

        Today the Senate held a historic and long-overdue vote on hate
    crimes legislation. I applaud the Senate for passing this crucial
    measure, and recognize the efforts of Senator Kennedy on this important issue. This amendment recognizes that
    hate crimes are different from other crimes. When Americans are targeted
    just because of who they are--whether

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    because of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual
    orientation, or disability--they hurt more. These crimes affect entire
    communities and strike at the heart of our American system of values.
    This important legislation sends a message that everyone is protected
    under the law.
        This legislation also recognizes that State and local law
    enforcement still have primary responsibility for investigating and
    prosecuting hate crimes. It provides much needed assistance for State
    and local law enforcement agencies. It provides financial assistance
    through grants and help with investigations and prosecutions so that
    Federal, State, and local law enforcement can work together to ensure
    that perpetrators of hate crimes are brought to justice. In addition,
    the legislation ensures that Federal law enforcement officers confer
    with State and local law enforcement before bringing a case in Federal
    court.
        Today a majority of the Senate has spoken. We must all work together
    to ensure that this amendment is not removed during conference. I urge
    all Members of Congress to send me this legislation to sign into law.