Washington, DC, September 13, 2000 … The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) today welcomed today’s vote in the U.S. House of Representatives in support of legislation to expand federal hate crimes laws. The vote marks the first time the House has voted in support of this measure, the Local Law Enforcement Enhancement Act.

"This important House action puts us squarely on track to secure enactment of this necessary legislation before Congress adjourns this fall," said Howard P. Berkowitz, ADL National Chairman, and Abraham H. Foxman, ADL National Director. "We will continue our leadership role in coordinating a coalition of law enforcement, civic, religious and civil rights groups in support of this vital measure."

The hate crime measure endorsed by a majority of House members today was approved by the Senate in June by broad bipartisan vote of 57-42. The measure, part of the Department of Defense Authorization Bill, would enable the federal Department of Justice to assist local prosecutions and, where appropriate, investigate and prosecute cases in which the bias violence occurs because of the victim’s race, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender or disability. Existing law does not provide authority for federal involvement in sexual orientation, gender or disability cases.

Forty-three states and the District of Columbia have also passed hate crime statutes, many based on model legislation drafted by ADL. The League has been a pioneer in drafting and promoting tougher hate crimes laws across the country.

The Anti-Defamation League, founded in 1913, is the world's leading organization fighting anti-Semitism through programs and services that counteract hatred, prejudice and bigotry.