The Homeless Protection Act in New York enhances hate crime legislation by recognizing homelessness as a protected class. This change aims to acknowledge and address the rampant violence faced by individuals experiencing homelessness. A significant percentage of this population is victimized annually, highlighting an urgent need for legal protections. The Act reflects a societal shift towards understanding homelessness not as a public safety threat, but rather a group needing protection from bias and violence. Assemblymember Linda B. Rosenthal and Senator Luis R. Sepúlveda are key proponents of this important legislation.
The stark truth becomes clear: violence is a constant threat for people experiencing homelessness, and stigma drives the narrative that they are threats to public safety.
The Homeless Protection Act expands New York hate crime laws, allowing attacks against individuals perceived as homeless, motivated by bias, to be classified as hate crimes.
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