NC H961

Creates "The Hate Crimes Prevention Act" establishing enhanced sentences for felony offenses committed against victims because of their race, ethnicity, color, religion, nationality, country of origin, or gender

Increases the felony classification by one class level when a hate crime motivation is proven, resulting in longer potential sentences

Requires the State to prove bias motivation beyond a reasonable doubt during trial, with the facts alleged in the indictment

Adds "gender" to the existing list of protected characteristics in the aggravating factor statute for bias-motivated offenses

Effective December 1, 2025, applying to offenses committed on or after that date