“There seemed to be a lot of interest and concern to learn more,” she said.

Effective March 23, all colleges and universities in New York State will be required to inform incoming students about the Hate Crimes Prevention Act of 2000. This will include educating students on how bias crimes can be prevented on campuses. The new legislation was enacted by Gov. Pataki six months ago, and is now in effect.

According to the New York Law Journal , New York became the 44 th state to enact the hate crimes statute. The statute toughens the penalties for people who commit offenses on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, gender, religion, age, disability or sexual orientation. Under the new statute, the sentence terms have been increased. Previously, the terms for such crimes were two to seven years and now judges can impose a 3.5 – 15-year sentence. By enforcing the statute the state hopes to reinforce the message that these crimes will not be tolerated.

The Governor issued the following statement on Sep. 23, 2003, when he signed the new bill: “When someone is violently attacked on the basis of their religious beliefs, ethnic background, or sexual orientation, it is an attack on all New Yorkers.”

In that same press release, Sen. Kenneth LaValle said: “It is important that we establish clear, uniform procedures for all colleges and universities to follow when dealing with an alleged bias crime ; and to ensure that all students are aware of the bias related crime prevention measures that are in place. The bill I sponsored will facilitate open lines of communication, raise student awareness and create a safer college environment regardless of race, national origin, gender relation or sexual orientation.”

Outlined in the new bill, colleges and universities must now provide students with the following information:

• Applicable laws on bias-related crimes
• Penalties for commission of bias-related crimes
• Procedures in effect at the college for dealing with the crimes
• Availability of counseling and support services for victims
• Common circumstances relating to bias-related crimes on campus
• Methods the college employs to advise and update students about security procedures

The new legislation was well received by the NCCJ, an organization always advocating for education regarding hate crimes , as well as reporting them.

“We believe that it is extremely important and commendable that Gov. Pataki is enacting this legislation. It is vital that hate crimes first be reported and if need be prosecuted,” Benatovich said.

For more information on hate crimes, click here.

Email: solana23@mail.buffalostate.edu