MI SB0601

Renames "ethnic intimidation" to "hate crime" and expands protected categories to include sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, physical or mental disability, age, and association/affiliation with protected individuals.

Adds new criminal conduct categories: causing bodily injury, stalking, and making true threats; expands property damage definition to include digital and online property.

Establishes tiered penalties ranging from misdemeanor (first threat violation: up to 1 year imprisonment or $1,000 fine) to felony (second/subsequent violations, crimes committed with weapons, against minors, or in concert with others: up to 6 years imprisonment or $7,500 fine).

Increases civil damages from $2,000 to $5,000 minimum for hate crime victims and allows treble damages; permits alternative sentences including community service with defendant consent.

Clarifies that misgendering someone does not constitute a hate crime and protects constitutional free speech rights.