HOUSE BILL REPORT

EHB 2237

BYRepresentative Anderson

Enacting the Antibigotry and Bias Act of 1989.

LEGISLATIVE BILL DIGEST - AS PASSED HOUSE JANUARY 24, 1990

SUMMARY:

Amends the malicious harassment statute to criminalize as a class C felony certain acts done in a way that is reasonably related to, associated with, or directed toward, another's sexual orientation, as well as existing protected statutes.

Establishes certain words or conduct that may constitute such acts, such as cross burning and painting certain symbols on property.  Proscribes certain written or oral communication where the context or situation surrounding the words or conduct places another person in reasonable fear of harm, as specified.

Defines "sexual orientation."

Requires the administrator for the courts to develop a curriculum for a general understanding of hate or bias crimes and the special needs of this crime's victims, and certain other matters, to be made available to all judges and justices by July 1, 1989.

Requires the state association of sheriffs and police chiefs to have a central repository for the collection and classification of information regarding malicious harassment crimes, to plan for how such crimes may be monitored, and to report thereon.

Requires all law enforcement agencies to report monthly to the association concerning such crimes.

Requires the association to summarize and annually report on such information.

Requires the criminal justice training commission to provide certain related training to law enforcement officers.

Voids these information gathering and dissemination provisions and these training provisions, unless specific appropriations are made by June 30, 1989.