There is a lot of talk regarding Bob Newland’s sentence for felony possession of marijuana resulting in his ban on political work regarding legalization. And here is another attack on the first amendment:
Two sides traded arguments over hate-crimes law in dueling Sioux Falls news conferences Tuesday, each warning against a loss of rights if the other prevailed.
"We will not tolerate hate perpetrated against vulnerable populations," said Karen Mudd, a board member of Equality South Dakota, which backs lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender residents.
An hour later, three pastors said the Senate bill would hinder their work and the testimony of those who try to live by the Bible.
"This bill infringes on a Christian's right to speak out on any type of sin. Christians should be able to speak in society and seek to change society," said pastor Matthew Haag of Grace Community Church.
The dispute concerns extending hate-crimes law to cover sexual orientation and whether that would hinder speech and religion rights of those who oppose homosexuality.
The issue divides South Dakota's members of Congress, with a Senate vote perhaps by next week.
Democratic Sen. Tim Johnson is one of 46 co-sponsors of the bill to expand protection to the gay community.
"People should not be physically attacked simply because of their race, gender, color, religion, national origin, sexual orientation or disability," he said in a statement.
Republican Sen. John Thune opposes the bill, saying all crimes should be prosecuted no matter the victim and a wider federal role is unnecessary.
In the House, Democrat Stephanie Herseth Sandlin voted for a similar bill in April.
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