AG’s Hate Crimes Working Group releases recommendations to Legislature

Report calls for numerous policy changes within law enforcement, schools and employers.

OLYMPIA — Attorney General Bob Ferguson’s Multidisciplinary Hate Crime Advisory Working Group released its report to the Legislature and Gov. Jay Inslee today, outlining a comprehensive approach to better address hate crimes in Washington. The group calls on the state to improve training for law enforcement, create new avenues for prosecutors to charge crimes and for schools and employers to better educate people about hate and bias.

“The need to improve how Washington state handles hate crimes has rarely been more clear or urgent,” Ferguson said. “This report provides a road map so we can demonstrate our commitment to the safety of all Washingtonians.”

"We are proud of the work of the Washington State Hate Crimes Advisory Working Group — a culmination of nearly a year of collaboration across a diverse set of stakeholders from across the state," said Miri Cypers of the Anti-Defamation League’s Pacific Northwest Region. "While the recommendations provided by the group are smart, timely, and effective, they are one step in our continued work to address the growing challenges of hate, bigotry, and discrimination that our communities face every day. We urge legislators to carefully consider these recommendations, adopt meaningful policies, and provide the necessary resources to truly make Washington no place for hate."

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