OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — A state lawmaker says he plans to file legislation to protect Oklahomans from encroachments on speech, assembly and religious beliefs.
Sen. Steve Russell of Oklahoma City says the measure is a response to concerns about new federal hate crimes legislation. President Barack Obama signed a bill last month to include violence against gays in federal hate crimes law.
Russell says he believe's the bill exceeds the government's power over the states as outlined in the U.S. Constitution.
He says he's also concerned the bill could be used to target people's beliefs, freedom to associate in groups and right to assemble as well as target people's right to free speech.
Russell's bill will be considered by the 2010 Legislature, which convenes in February.
Sen. Steve Russell of Oklahoma City says the measure is a response to concerns about new federal hate crimes legislation. President Barack Obama signed a bill last month to include violence against gays in federal hate crimes law.
Russell says he believe's the bill exceeds the government's power over the states as outlined in the U.S. Constitution.
He says he's also concerned the bill could be used to target people's beliefs, freedom to associate in groups and right to assemble as well as target people's right to free speech.
Russell's bill will be considered by the 2010 Legislature, which convenes in February.
