SPRINGFIELD, Ill. - In response to tragic attacks, state Rep. Mike Smiddy, D-Hillsdale, is sponsoring legislation expanding the definition of hate crimes in Illinois to include crimes against current or former military members.
"The attacks on July 16 in Chattanooga show us that military members are targeted, simply as a result of their service," Smiddy said. "This bill will honor the victims of the attack in Chattanooga by acting as a deterrent for those who would target the men and women who sacrifice just to keep us safe."
Smiddy is cosponsoring House Bill 4308 which designates crimes committed against uniformed members of the Armed Forces or veterans' organizations as potential hate crimes. Under current Illinois law, the 'hate crime' designation is a way to strengthen punishment when crimes are committed against individuals based on their actual or perceived race, color, creed, religion, ancestry, gender, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, or national origin. The measure ensures that specifically trying to harm military personnel can result in increased penalties at the time of sentencing.
"Criminals who target military members who have sacrificed for our nation deserve strict punishment under the law, and this bill will strengthen the penalties they face," Smiddy said. "We have to continue to take steps to ensure veterans, military members and their families are safe here at home."
House Bill 4308 was filed on October 6 and will be sent to a House committee for consideration.
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