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Ban on 'Panic' Defenses in Cases Involving Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity

This new law prohibits using arguments about 'panic' related to a victim's sexual orientation or gender identity to excuse or reduce punishment for crimes. It aims to ensure equal legal protection for all citizens and strengthen justice by eliminating outdated justifications for violence.
Key points
A victim's sexual orientation or gender identity can no longer be used to excuse or lessen punishment for crimes.
The law aims to increase protection for LGBTQ individuals against bias-motivated crimes.
Courts can still consider a defendant's past trauma, but not if it's linked to the victim's orientation or identity.
The Attorney General will annually report on federal prosecutions of crimes against LGBTQ individuals.
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Additional Information
Print number: 117_HR_2629
Sponsor: Rep. Pappas, Chris [D-NH-1]
Process start date: 2021-04-16
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Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash-preview-05-20
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Gay and Trans Panic Defense Prohibition Act of 2021

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 117_HR_2629.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the House of Representatives.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2021-04-16.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • A victim's sexual orientation or gender identity can no longer be used to excuse or lessen punishment for crimes.
  • The law aims to increase protection for LGBTQ individuals against bias-motivated crimes.
  • Courts can still consider a defendant's past trauma, but not if it's linked to the victim's orientation or identity.
  • The Attorney General will annually report on federal prosecutions of crimes against LGBTQ individuals.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Rep. Pappas, Chris [D-NH-1].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Referred to the Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism, and Homeland Security.

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-27.

CATEGORIES

Courts and Law Security