An Act relative to hate crimes

This bill amends Massachusetts hate crime laws to increase the maximum prison sentences for offenders. Specifically, it raises the potential jail time from five years to ten years and increases the fine limit from ten thousand to twenty thousand dollars. The changes apply to individuals convicted of committing hate crimes under Chapter 265 of the state statutes. By extending the penalties, the legislation aims to provide stricter consequences for those who commit offenses motivated by bias against race, religion, or other protected characteristics.