Bias crimes penalty upped

ST. PAUL -- Crimes based on bias would receive 25 percent longer prison terms under a bill Minnesota senators approved Monday 40-19.

Sen. Ron Latz, D-St. Louis Park, said the bill came after an African immigrant was struck with a beer mug from someone who objected to her talking in her native language in a Twin Cities restaurant.

http://www.bemidjipioneer.com/news/region/4028564-bias-crimes-penalty-upped