KY HB479

Repeals and reenacts KRS 532.031 to define hate crimes as offenses under homicide, assault, kidnapping, criminal mischief, or arson statutes committed based on actual or perceived race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, physical or mental disability, age, ethnicity, national origin, or association with protected groups

Standard hate crime violations are Class D felonies punishable by up to 3 years imprisonment and/or $5,000 fine; enhanced penalties of up to 5 years and/or $10,000 fine apply when bodily injury results, the victim is under 18, the offender has prior hate crime convictions, acted with others, or possessed a firearm

Requires the Kentucky Law Enforcement Council to establish hate crime identification, investigation, response, and reporting training by January 1, 2027, with all officers required to complete training every 2 years starting January 1, 2029

Creates a civil cause of action allowing hate crime victims to recover injunctive relief, actual damages including emotional distress, treble damages, punitive damages, and attorney's fees regardless of criminal prosecution outcome

Requires law enforcement agencies to maintain written hate crime policy and procedures manuals and mandates uniform offense reports include information on whether crimes appear motivated by protected characteristics