Rauner OKs tougher hate crime statute

By Andrew Maloney Law Bulletin staff writer

Posted August 22, 2017 2:43 PM

SPRINGFIELD — Among a cluster of bills recently signed into law is a measure to strengthen Illinois’ hate crimes statute.House Bill 3711, an initiative of the state’s attorney general, adds offenses such as intimidation and cyberstalking to the list of acts that can be considered hate crimes.It also allows the state’s top lawyer to bring a civil case against anyone accused of committing such a crime, regardless of whether they’re convicted in a criminal case. Potential damages can be imposed …

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