Georgia Introduces Landmark Bill to Recognize Hinduphobia in Penal Code

Senate Bill 375, backed by bipartisan support, seeks to define Hinduphobia and empower law enforcement to address anti-Hindu hate crimes.

Georgia has introduced Senate Bill 375, making it the first U.S. state to propose formal recognition of Hinduphobia in its penal code.
The bill defines Hinduphobia as 'antagonistic, destructive, and derogatory attitudes and behaviors towards Hinduism' and integrates it into anti-discrimination laws.
Bipartisan support for the legislation includes Republican Senators Shawn Still and Clint Dixon and Democratic Senators Jason Esteves and Emanuel D. Jones.
Provisions in the bill ensure constitutional safeguards, including protections for free speech and legally protected expressions.
If enacted, the legislation would mandate law enforcement to consider Hinduphobia in hate crime investigations, setting a precedent for other states.