According to a report from the BBC, the Scottish Parliament has passed a bill that fights against hate crimes towards the LGBTQ+ community.
The inclusive bill passed by an 82 to 32 vote this past Thursday after a prolonged debate. The Hate Crime and Public Order (Scotland) Bill will define offences as “aggravated” – which in turn will affect the sentencing process – if the offence was committed because of someone’s sexual orientation, transgender identity, race, age, or disability.
Justice Secretary Humza Yousaf expressed his excitement with the bill stating: “I am delighted Holyrood has backed this powerful legislation that is fitting for the Scotland we live in.