Cites the act as the "Hate Crimes Prevention Act."
Enacts GS 15A-1340.16H establishing a sentence enhancement for felonies committed against the victim because of the victim's race, ethnicity, color, religion, nationality, country of origin, or gender. Provides for sentencing at a felony class level one class higher than the principal felony. Requires factual allegations qualifying the offense for the enhancement in the indictment or information for the felony. Establishes the standard of proof to be beyond a reasonable doubt and requires the issue be proved at the same trial as the felony, unless the defendant pleads guilty or no contest to the enhancement issue or, if the defendant pleads guilty or no contest to the felony but not guilty to the enhancement issue, then a jury must be impaneled to determine the issue.
Amends GS 15A-1340.16, expanding aggravating factors for sentencing to include when the offense was committed against the victim because of the victim's ethnicity or gender (was limited to race, color, religion, nationality, or country of origin).
Applies to offenses committed on or after December 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Filed: 15A-1340.16