This bill amends various sections of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes to address hate-based intimidation and civil rights violations. It redefines the offense of ethnic intimidation to "hate-based intimidation," expanding the categories of protected characteristics to include ethnicity, ancestry, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, and disability. The bill also clarifies that malicious intent must be motivated by hatred towards these characteristics. Additionally, it establishes that individuals who suffer personal injury or property damage due to hate-based intimidation can seek civil remedies, including injunctions and damages, against not only the perpetrator but also those who solicited or aided the perpetrator.

Furthermore, the bill mandates annual training for law enforcement officers on hate-based intimidation, developed in consultation with community stakeholders. This training will cover identification, methods of addressing, reporting, and recordkeeping related to hate-based intimidation, as well as recognizing enforcement-related bias. The bill aims to enhance the legal framework surrounding hate-based crimes and ensure that law enforcement is adequately prepared to handle such incidents. The act will take effect in 60 days.

Statutes/Laws affected:
Printer's No. 2371 (Sep 30, 2025): P.L.1176, No.143, P.L.1701, No.214