Ryu’s bill clarifying Hate Crime Law signed by Governor

OLYMPIA – When hate fuels violence, even in part, Washington law will now recognize it for what it is: a hate crime. On Monday, Rep. Cindy Ryu’s (D-Shoreline) bill to strengthen Washington’s hate crime statutes was signed into law. House Bill 1052 helps to ensure justice for victims targeted because of who they are.

The new law clarifies that a person commits a hate crime not only when bias is the sole motive, but also when it is one of multiple motives. This crucial update—changing the standard to include offenses committed “in whole or in part” because of a person’s race, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, or other protected characteristic—ensures prosecutors can more effectively hold offenders accountable.

“This legislation ensures that hate does not hide behind ambiguity,” said Rep. Ryu. “Too often, violent acts rooted in bigotry go unpunished because the legal threshold was misunderstood. With this change, we make it clear: if hate is any part of your motive, it matters, and it’s a crime.”

The bill was introduced in response to concerns from prosecutors and civil rights advocates that Washington’s previous standard was too narrow, making convictions difficult in many cases. In reality, many hate crimes involve “mixed motives,” and this update reflects the complex nature of these offenses.

“When there is evidence to show that people were victimized by a hate crime — in whole or in part because of a defendant’s bias — those perpetrators must be held accountable. Prosecutors need this legal fix to ensure that happens,” King County Prosecuting Attorney Leesa Manion said.

“I appreciate the leadership of Rep. Cindy Ryu and Sen. Manka Dhingra to hold people accountable when they act out from a place of hate.”

HB 1052 passed the House on February 13 with a 61-31 vote and the Senate on April 3 with a 30-19 vote. It was strongly supported by the Anti-Defamation League and the King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office.

The law will go into effect 90 days after the Legislature adjourns.