WA SB5830

Adds "political affiliation" as a protected category under Washington's hate crime laws by amending RCW 9A.36.078 and 9A.36.080

Hate crime offenses include assault, property damage/destruction, or threats against persons based on perception of their race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, political affiliation, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, or disability

Mistaken belief about a victim's protected status (including political affiliation) is not a valid defense against hate crime charges

Hate crime offenses remain classified as a class C felony, with victims retaining the right to pursue additional civil remedies

The bill does not expand or confer any new civil rights beyond those already existing under federal or state constitution and Washington civil laws