Hate Crimes in Washington: Recent Changes in State and Federal Law and a Guide to Resources

Washington’s statutes prohibiting hate crimes are found at RCW 9A.36.078 (Findings), RCW 9A.36.080 (Definition and Criminal Penalty), and RCW 9A.36.083 (Civil Action). A hate crime statute has existed in Washington since 1981 when the crime was termed “malicious harassment.” Over the years the statute has been amended several times, enumerating the several acts and categories of bias covered in the law. A hate crime offense is a class C felony. Consult the statute here to find which acts and categories of bias are currently addressed in Washington.

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