IL HB3715

Amends the hate crime statute to include crimes committed by reason of the actual or perceived employment as a peace officer or status as a retired peace officer as a qualifying factor for hate crime charges.

Expands the list of offenses that can constitute hate crimes when motivated by peace officer status to include assault, battery, aggravated assault, misdemeanor theft, criminal trespass, mob action, disorderly conduct, harassment by telephone, and harassment through electronic communications.

Establishes hate crime penalties as a Class 4 felony for first offense and Class 2 felony for subsequent offenses; increases to Class 3 felony for first offense when committed at religious buildings, cemeteries, schools, public parks, or within 1,000 feet of these locations.

Requires courts to impose restitution or fines and mandate at least 200 hours of community service plus attendance at an educational program discouraging hate crimes as conditions of probation or supervised release.

Allows victims of hate crimes to bring civil actions for actual damages, emotional distress, and punitive damages up to $25,000 per violation, with the court awarding attorney's fees and costs to prevailing plaintiffs.