Removing Increased Penalty from Hate Crime Law DEFEATED by 298-48
Recently, a group of New Hampshire Law makers attempted to reverse the “Increased Penalty” clause in the Hate Crime Law currently on the books through House Bill HB 136FN. But, this legislation was defeated by 298-48 votes in NH State House of Representatives.
New Hampshire’s Cultural and Ethnic Organizations like the India Association of New Hampshire (IANH - www.ianh.org) led the fight to defeat the House Bill 136FN. Passage of this bill would have removed increased penalties for those who commit hate crimes. There are numerous examples where NH Indian Americans were mistreated or beaten up by people, who decided to act out their personal vendettas on law-abiding Indian Americans especially after the 9-11.
IANH sent out a Legislative Alert to its members on January 28, 2005. Our members contacted over 14 State legislators through email and telephone and shared their personal stories on how the passage of the legislation would affect their lives.
This effort represents a milestone in the legislative awareness and education campaign of the India Association of New Hampshire. The following are the quotes from some of the legislators who responded to our members. Note: A “no” vote was a vote against removing increased penalties for hate crimes.
· "Thank your for contacting me about HB 136FN. I have already attended the hearing and gave them the information that several of my constituents are opposed to this bill. They want to continue to have a higher penalty for hate crimes."
- Rep. Carolyn Gargasz, Hollis
· "I went to the hearing on HB 136 and recorded my opposition to the bill. We cannot have these attacks on equal rights anywhere in these United States or the world for that matter. Be assured that when the bill comes to the floor I will cast a NO Vote."
-Rep. Dick Drisko, Hollis
· "I agree that we should not change our hate crime laws. I will oppose this as written."
- Rep. Ken Hawkins, Bedford
· "Don't worry this Bill will never see the light of day as we say in America. This law is needed now more than ever."
- Rep. Moe Villeneuve, Bedford |
