SPOKANE, Wash. – A bill concerning criminal penalties for bias-motivated defacement of private or public property in the state of Washington passed the House on Thursday.
The bill, titled hate crimes legislation SB 5917, is a response to multiple incidents of vandalism targeting rainbow crosswalks in Spokane’s Perry District.
The House’s 68-27 vote along with the Senate’s previous 35-14 vote “marks a commendable show of bipartisan support for the legislation”, according to a release from the Spokane City Council.
“The passage of the hate crimes legislation is a tremendous victory for our city and all those impacted by hate crimes,” said Council Member Zack Zappone. “This legislation arose in response to targeted attacks on community members. It shows our commitment to ensuring that we all belong in Spokane and all of Washington. We are thankful for the team effort to pass this legislation, including community members and Sen. Billig.”
The passing of this bill, which will help to ensure that individuals who commit hate crimes are held accountable for their actions, is a significant step toward fighting against hate and bigotry in Spokane, according to the Council.
“It is a testament to the power of community mobilization and the importance of bipartisan support for protecting all individuals,” said Council President Betsy Wilkerson.
“Everyone deserves to be safe and feel safe in our community,” said Senator Andy Billig. “By closing this loophole in the state’s hate crime statute, we make our community more welcoming and increase accountability for those committing hate crimes. I appreciate the partnership with the City to advance this important bill to address hateful acts. Once again, Spokane is leading the way.”
The bill will become state law once it is signed by the governor’s office.
