Includes bias-related graffiti in hate crimes

This bill amends New York State law to explicitly include bias-related graffiti as a hate crime. Specifically, it adds "making graffiti" (section 145.60 of the penal law) to the list of offenses that qualify as hate crimes when motivated by bias against race, religion, sexual orientation, or other protected characteristics. This means graffiti displaying hate symbols or slurs would now be prosecuted under hate crime statutes rather than as a standard property offense. The change affects individuals who create such graffiti and communities targeted by these acts, ensuring bias-motivated vandalism receives heightened legal scrutiny. The bill takes effect November 1, 2025, pending final passage.