Washington state lawmakers pass hate crime bill amid concerns over ‘absolute freedom of conscience’

The Washington House has passed a revised version of a bill that would expand the state’s definition of a hate crime, though concerns were raised by some lawmakers despite amendments adding clarity to the legislation.

Speaking in opposition, state Rep. Jim Walsh, R-Aberdeen, noted the bill could run afoul of the state constitution, which guarantees “absolute freedom of conscience.”

“Sometimes in exercising absolutely freedom of conscience an individual may articulate what is perceived as ‘hate’ by other people,” he said. “We need to proceed very carefully when we regulate speech, and while I appreciate the intent of the underlying bill, Article 1, Section 11 is the highest law in our state.”

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