H 2617
An Act further defining a hate crime
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Bill overview
This bill aims to clarify and expand the definition of ‘hate crime’ in Massachusetts law. It seeks to provide a more comprehensive understanding of what constitutes a hate crime, potentially broadening the scope of offenses that can be prosecuted as such. The legislation intends to strengthen protections for victims of hate crimes and ensure consistent enforcement of existing laws. It builds upon previous attempts to define hate crimes within the state.
Key provisions
- Expands the definition of ‘hate crime’ to include a broader range of protected characteristics.
- Clarifies the elements required to prove a crime qualifies as a hate crime.
- Addresses the potential for enhanced penalties for hate crimes.
- Specifies how bias or prejudice should be considered in determining if a crime is motivated by hate.
- Defines ‘group’ for the purpose of hate crime legislation.
Who is affected
- Victims of hate crimes
- Law enforcement agencies
- Prosecutors
- Individuals targeted by hate crimes
- The general public
Notable changes
- Builds upon previous attempts to define hate crimes in Massachusetts.
- Potentially broadens the categories of offenses considered hate crimes.
Sponsors
Official sponsors from legislative records.
Primary sponsor
Colleen M. Garry
Cosponsor
Colleen M. Garry
Arguments in favor
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Bill H.2617 194th (Current)
An Act further defining a hate crime
By Representative Garry of Dracut, a petition (accompanied by bill, House, No. 2617) of Colleen M. Garry for legislation to further define hate crimes. Public Safety and Homeland Security.
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Bill Information
Bill Information
Presenter: Colleen M. Garry
Tabs
Bill History Petitioners Committee Vote Committee Summary Hearing Attendance
Bill History
Displaying 5 actions for Bill H.2617
| Date | Branch | Action |
| 2/27/2025 | House | Referred to the committee on Public Safety and Homeland Security |
| House | Reported by committee to Clerk’s Office for processing, will accompany a study order | |
| 2/27/2025 | Senate | Senate concurred |
| 9/11/2025 | Joint | Hearing scheduled for 09/25/2025 from 01:00 PM-05:00 PM in A-2 |
| 4/23/2026 | House | Accompanied a study order, see H5322 (under House Rule 27) |
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