Republican New Hampshire Bill would eliminate hate crime laws

A group of lawmakers is pushing to eliminate New Hampshire's hate crime laws, claiming the state is punishing people for unpopular beliefs. People spoke out on both sides of the issue at a legislative hearing Thursday. "With the introduction of hate crime laws, the government has entered the realm of prosecutions based on attitudes and belief," Rep. Robert Giuda, R-Warren said. "Everyone no matter what race, creed, sexual orientation or background is equal," said Rep. Elbert Bicknell, R-Deerfield, a former police officer who said hate crime laws are not necessary. Dozens spoke against the proposal. Glinda Allen of Hooksett said the bill ignores the reality of her world, in which she suffers racial slurs and bigotry. "There are groups of people who hate me," said Allen, who is black. "Some love me, but there are people who hate me simply because of the color of my skin," she said. Adam Solender of the Jewish Federation of Greater Manchester said hate crime laws are necessary because the motivations behind such crimes should lead to greater sentences. [more]