From: Representative Joseph Mitchell [mailto:joseph.mitchell@alhouse.gov] 
Sent: Friday, April 17, 2009 12:43 PM
To: 'Jonathan Maher'
Subject: RE: An Essay on Gay Equality sent to the U.S. Congress, PLEASE REDISTRIBUTE!

Got it.
Will distribute.
jcm



Ala. House votes to add sexual orientation to hate law

ASSOCIATED PRESS • APRIL 23, 2009
 
A bill to expand Alabama's hate crimes law by adding crimes against people because of their sexual orientation has been approved by the Alabama House.

The bill sponsored by Democratic Rep. Alvin Holmes of Montgomery was approved by the House Thursday on a close 46-41 vote.

The state's current hate crimes law was passed in 1994. It includes crimes against people for race, color, religion and national origin.

The bill now goes to the Senate.

The Legislature's first and only openly gay lawmaker, Democratic Rep. Patricia Todd of Birmingham, said she had been a "victim of hate" and understood the importance of the bill.