New Michigan Hate Speech Bill Would Make It a Felony to Make Someone ‘Feel’ Threatened

A new Michigan bill would make it a hate crime to cause someone to “feel terrorized, frightened, or threatened.”

The Michigan Hate Crime Act, designated HB 4474 , passed in the state House on Tuesday {snip}  It will replace the existing Ethnic Intimidation Act and expand the categories of people protected by the law.

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It would also expand the definition of a hate crime from threats or property damage under the current law to a broader definition that includes force, intimidation, threats, bodily injury or damage to personal property.

The act defines intimidation as “repeated or continuing harassment of another individual” that causes the victim to “feel terrorized, frightened or threatened.” It would not include “constitutionally protected activity or conduct that serves a legitimate purpose.”

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