Washington's Governor Gregoire Signs Transgender Hate Crimes Bill

[ccharles000]

Washington's Governor Chris Gregoire has signed the transgender hate crimes bill, SB 5952, which had bipartisan support in the legislature.
Washington's hate-crime law makes it a felony to threaten, damage the property of, or physically injure someone because of ethnicity, nationality, religion, gender, disability or sexual orientation. The law Gov. Gregoire just signed will expand the definition of sexual orientation to include "gender expression or identity" so that our hate crimes statutes protect transgender people too.

Washington is arguably one of the best states in the country for transgender people to live. Just look at this phenomenal track record.

In 2006 the legislature passed the inclusive non-discrimination bill that protects LGBT people from discrimination in the workplace, housing and public accommodation. Gov. Gregoire signed that bill into law.

In 2008, King County voters overwhelmingly (71%) approved amending the county charter to add disability, sexual orientation, and gender identity or expression to the prohibited grounds for discrimination in county employment and county contracting.

In 2007, 2008 & 2009 the legislature created and then fully expanded domestic partnerships. The governor will sign the ultimate bill this week.

In 2009, today!, Governor Gregoire signed the new hate crimes bill into law.

http://www.pamshouseblend.com/diary/10566/washington-governor-gregoire-signs-transgender-hate-crimes-bill

[anonymous171]

1. I voted for her! nt

[DebbieCDC]

2. Me 2!!

[tbyg52]

3. I've sent her money, even though I'm in TX..... ;-> nt

[Union Yes]

4. knr.. Great news. WA state a leader in LGBT rights