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Florida proposal aims to increase criminal penalties for hate crimes

ORLANDO, Fla. — There’s a new proposal aimed at putting an end to hate crimes in Florida.

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Channel 9 has been reporting on antisemitic messages found in Orange County this month.

Flyers have been seen blaming members of the Jewish community for the COVID-19 pandemic.

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However, a new proposal will define certain acts as hate crimes and could increase criminal penalties.

Third-degree felony charges could be on the table for people who damage religious cemeteries or harass someone because of religious-based clothing.

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