[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 35, Number 31 (Monday, August 9, 1999)]
[Page 1556]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Statement on 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. 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.