On Thursday, the Senate overwhelmingly passed a bill condemning discrimination against the Asian community. It also created a new position at the Justice Department to expedite potential COVID-19 related hate crimes.
According to CNN, the vote tallied in 94-1, with the lone vote in opposition from Missouri Republican Senator Josh Hawley.
Under the bill, the departments of Justice and Health and Human Services are able to issue guidance on awareness of hate crimes that occur during the pandemic and work with agencies to create online reporting of crimes against Asians.
The bill will now go to the House, and then it will be signed by President Biden.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said the bill is “proof” that “the Senate can work to solve important issues” and would tell bigots “we’re going after you.”
The bill, sponsored by New York Democratic Rep. Grace Meng and Hawaii Democratic Sen. Mazie Hirono, was able to gain momentum following the violence against Asians that rose following the pandemic.
