The bill amends 13 V.S.A. § 1455 concerning hate-motivated crimes in Vermont. It broadens the definition of motivation for such crimes by replacing references to "the victims" with "another persons or a group of persons" and specifies that the actual or perceived "membership in a protected category" can be a motivating factor. The penalties for hate-motivated crimes are structured based on the maximum penalty of the underlying crime, with specific terms of imprisonment and fines outlined for different categories of offenses. Additionally, it clarifies that the motivation related to a person's or group's protected category need not be the predominant or sole reason for the defendant's conduct.

The bill also updates the definition of "protected category" to include various characteristics such as race, religion, national origin, sex, and others, ensuring comprehensive coverage against hate-motivated crimes. Furthermore, the act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 13-1455
As Passed By the House -- Official: 13-1455
As Passed By the House -- Unofficial: 13-1455
As Passed by Both House and Senate -- Official: 13-1455
As Passed by Both House and Senate -- Unofficial: 13-1455
As Enacted: 13-1455