We wanted to reach out and provide an update on the status of the bills. Although the current session will end on December 31, 2019, because Pennsylvania runs on a two-year legislative session, these bills will carry over to next year. The bills have been introduced in both the House and the Senate and are currently in committees. In the House,
HB2011 and
HB2013 are in the Judiciary Committee,
HB2012 is in the Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee, and
HB2010 is in the Education Committee. In the Senate,
SB943 is in the Judiciary Committee,
SB944 is in the Law and Justice Committee, and
SB945 is in the Education Committee.
“No one should be attacked because of their identity, and we must do everything possible to prevent acts of bias and hate,'' said Sikh Coalition Policy and Advocacy Manager Nikki Singh. “That work starts with these kinds of improvements to our laws. We are deeply appreciative of everyone who has taken action to support these bills and look forward to continuing our work to move this legislation forward.“
For more information on the details on the hate crime bill package, visit the Sikh Coalition’s
campaign page.
With the new legislative session starting on January 7, 2020 we will continue to work with elected officials, other civil rights organizations, and community members to help advance these bills. You can expect an update on the status of this legislation next month. If you have questions about the bills or want to know additional ways in which you can get involved, email us at
advocacy@sikhcoalition.org.
As always, the Sikh Coalition urges you to practice your faith fearlessly.
