SPOKANE, Wash. — A bill that was pushed by Spokane City leaders and local groups has received bi-partisan support. Hate Crimes Bill 5917 will make it so hate crimes on public property will be made a felony.
In September of last year, the Pride crosswalk outside of Odyssey Youth Movement in the Perry District was vandalized. Then, just one month later, the pride crosswalk in front of Riverfront Park was vandalized with white splashes of paint.
"We talked about how can we go after these people and make sure that they're held accountable for those actions," Zach Zappone said.
That's when Spokane Council Member Zappone stepped in.
"We listened to our community groups we worked with them to advance legislation that would help all members of our community feel protected," Zappone said.
At the time, since the acts of vandalism happened on public rights of way, people held responsible could only face misdemeanor charges. Now, thanks to the hate crimes bill that just passed both the Washington State Senate and House of Representatives...
"It is a felony now to commit these types of hate crimes on the public property," Zappone said.
Those who commit hate crimes on public property could soon face up to five years in jail and a fine of up to $10,000. It's this legislation that gives Zappone hope.
"It's an exciting feeling to see that government's working," Zappone said. "And it's doing what it's supposed to do, which is listen to community meet and respond."
The bill hasn't officially passed, but the bi-partisan support is one step closer to preventing these acts.
"The real goal is to make sure that these things are never occurring in the first place, and that people all feel like they belong," Zappone said.
The bill has been sent to the governor's office for a signature.
"While this originated with the LGBTQ community, it applies to all communities," Zappone said.
Zappone expects the Governor to sign the bill.
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