Moylan-Backed Law to Provide Greater Protections against Hate Crimes to Take Effect

DES PLAINES, Ill. – A new law supported by state Rep. Marty Moylan, D-Des Plaines, to crack down on hate crimes against houses of worship and increase penalties for those convicted of committing hate crimes will take effect Jan. 1, 2018.

“Our country was founded and built by people with different faiths and backgrounds and whenever someone attacks another person because they are different, they are attacking what makes our country great,” Moylan said. “Unfortunately, we have seen far too many politicians and extremists try to use racism and discrimination to advance their agenda, which has led to increased attacks against religious minorities.”

Responding to incidents of vandalism and racist graffiti targeting houses of worship throughout Illinois, Moylan backed House Bill 2390, which allows police and prosecutors to charge criminals who target religious institutions with a hate crime. Individuals convicted of committing hate crimes must attend in-person educational classes focused on discouraging hate crimes against the targeted group. Additionally, if community service time is court ordered, the offender must perform the service in the county in which they were convicted of the crime.

The new law also gives judges the ability to determine if an offender must compensate the victim for damages, based on the severity of the crime suffered by the victim. Parents and legal guardians would also be financially responsible for crimes committed by minors.

“This new law is about sending a clear message that we will not tolerate those who commit hate crimes, and that we will stand with the victims of these heinous crimes,” Moylan said. “I applaud my colleagues for coming together to reject hate.”