SB624
Assault and battery; definition of "Islamophobia", penalty.
Status:
In Senate
Latest Action:
Feb. 2, 2026
Senate: Continued to next session in Courts of Justice (15-Y 0-N)
Chief Patron:
Saddam Azlan Salim (D)
Session:
2026 Regular Session
Summary
As Introduced. Assault and battery; definition of 'Islamophobia'; penalty.
Defines 'Islamophobia' as it relates to the crime of assault and battery as malicious prejudice or hatred directed toward Islam or Muslims. This definition applies regardless of whether the victim is actually a practitioner of Islam, provided that the perpetrator targeted such victim based on a perceived adherence to such ... (More) faith. The bill also clarifies that religious conviction includes Islam. The bill directs the Department of State Police, in consultation with the Office of the Attorney General and the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, to include the bill's definition of 'Islamophobia' in its hate crime reporting central repository. (Less)-
Bill History
- 01/14/2026 - Senate: Prefiled and ordered printed; Offered 01-14-2026 26104940D
- 01/14/2026 - Senate: Referred to Committee for Courts of Justice
- 01/20/2026 - Senate: Fiscal Impact statement From VCSC (1/20/2026 4:32 pm)
- 02/02/2026 - Senate: Senate committee offered
- 02/02/2026 - Senate: Continued to next session in Courts of Justice (15-Y 0-N)
