Hate-Crimes Bill Returning To State Legislature 

(Salt Lake City, UT)  –  State lawmakers will again consider a bill to create stiffer punishment for crimes that target people for their race, gender or other characteristics.  Senator Daniel Thatcher of West Valley City plans to reintroduce a hate-crimes bill that was shot down last year after heated debate.  The Mormon Church joined social conservatives in opposing the bill last year.  Protected characteristics under the bill would include race, religion, ancestry, gender, sexual orientation and gender identity.