Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress Senate Bill SB2279

Introduced
7/12/23  

Caption

LGBTQ+ Panic Defense Prohibition Act of 2023

Impact

If passed, SB2279 would significantly impact the treatment of cases involving bias-motivated crimes at the federal level. It intends to ensure that individuals accused of crimes cannot evade responsibility by claiming provocation due to a victim's sexual orientation or gender identity. The legislation represents a progressive step towards reinforcing legal protections for LGBTQ individuals and aligns with broader efforts to combat discrimination and violence against marginalized communities. The bill also includes a provision for the Attorney General to report annually on such cases, enhancing accountability and awareness of bias-motivated crimes.

Summary

SB2279, titled the "LGBTQ+ Panic Defense Prohibition Act of 2023," seeks to amend Title 18 of the United States Code by prohibiting panic defenses based on an individual's sexual orientation or gender identity or expression. This legislation was introduced in response to the longstanding practice within the judicial system where defendants have invoked such defenses to justify violent acts against LGBTQ individuals. The bill aims to eliminate the perception that a victim's identity can provoke a violent reaction, which has unjustly mitigated the responsibility of offenders in numerous legal cases.

Contention

The proposed legislation meets potential opposition primarily from those who argue that it undermines defendants' rights to present a full defense in court, including any past trauma that may have influenced their actions. However, supporters of the bill contend that maintaining the ability to use panic defenses perpetuates harmful stereotypes and societal prejudices against LGBTQ individuals. Advocates for the bill assert that it is crucial for creating a more equitable justice system where all lives are seen as equal, eliminating biases that have historically influenced legal outcomes.

Companion Bills

US HB4432

Same As LGBTQ+ Panic Defense Prohibition Act of 2023

Previously Filed As

US HB4432

LGBTQ+ Panic Defense Prohibition Act of 2023

US HB4197

LGBTQ+ Panic Defense Prohibition Act of 2025

US SB2201

LGBTQ+ Panic Defense Prohibition Act of 2025

US HB4273

LGBTQI+ and Women’s History Education Act of 2023

US HR568

Original LGBTQIA+ Pride Month Resolution of 2023

US SR282

A resolution recognizing June 2023 as "LGBTQ Pride Month".

US HB3970

LGBTQI+ Data Inclusion Act

US SB1839

LGBTQI+ Data Inclusion Act

US H0393

Gay and Transgender Panic Legal Defenses

US H0205

Gay and Transgender Panic Legal Defenses

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.