Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel expressed her approval of Governor Gretchen Whitmer's recent enactment of House Bills 5400-5401. These bills, sponsored by state Representatives Noah Arbit and Kristian Grant, aim to enhance the state's hate crime legislation.
"Our state’s previous hate crime laws were inadequate to deter and properly prosecute those that target Michigan residents with fear and hatred, simply for who they are," stated Nessel. She emphasized the importance of these stronger laws in protecting vulnerable communities from intolerance.
Nessel highlighted a concerning trend over the past decade: "We have seen not just an uptick in hate crimes, but a normalization of racist, antisemitic and bigoted language, symbolism and actions." She underscored the responsibility of authorities to denounce such behavior unequivocally.
The Attorney General praised Governor Whitmer for implementing these necessary updates to Michigan's legal framework.
For individuals affected by hate crimes or possessing credible information regarding such incidents, Nessel advised contacting local law enforcement first. Subsequently, they should reach out to the Hate Crimes and Domestic Terrorism Unit at the Department of Attorney General via email or phone at 313-456-0180. The department is committed to investigating credible tips and providing support to law enforcement agencies.