New Hampshire House Bill HCR2

New Hampshire 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/3/23
• Refer: 1/3/23
• Report DNP: 3/16/23

Caption

Relative to condemning recent vandalism and intolerance, as recently leviedagainst places of worship and public spaces,elected officials and against the general citizens of New Hampshire.

Impact

The resolution serves not only to condemn these acts but also calls for a unified effort to address hate crimes and improve reporting mechanisms. It urges state law enforcement to investigate incidents of hate crimes expeditiously and ensure that perpetrators are held accountable. Additionally, it emphasizes the need for agencies to collect and report hate crime data in compliance with federal law, suggesting a proactive stance towards safeguarding minority communities and promoting pluralism and respect in society.

Summary

HCR2 is a resolution introduced in the New Hampshire House of Representatives that condemns recent acts of vandalism and intolerance directed toward places of worship, public spaces, elected officials, and citizens. The resolution highlights the increasing instances of hate speech and vandalism in the state, including threats made against specific individuals and reported vandalism in schools, cemeteries, and national parks. It signifies a collective stand by the New Hampshire General Court against hate-driven actions and discrimination within the state.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding HCR2 appears to be one of solidarity and determination to combat intolerance. Supporters of the resolution view it as a necessary declaration against the rising tide of hate and discrimination in New Hampshire. This positive sentiment is aimed at fostering community cohesion and ensuring that harmful acts do not undermine societal values. The resolution reflects a broader consensus that actions driven by hate must be actively countered and condemned.

Contention

While HCR2 does not create new laws but serves in a condemning capacity, it may raise concerns among some groups about government overreach in addressing hate speech. The resolution’s focus on collaborative efforts among state authorities and the development of a task force to combat hate crimes could be perceived as a stringent approach to managing social discourse. Therefore, while it is largely embraced as a constructive step, there could be undercurrents of dispute regarding the measures proposed to combat discrimination and whether they infringe upon freedom of expression.