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A recent interview between TV host Brannon Howse and attorney Matt DePerno shed light on proposed legislation in Michigan that has raised concerns about its potential to criminalize free speech and religious programming. The interview focused on a bill known as hate crime legislation, which aims to expand the scope of what can be classified as a hate crime, with potential implications for religious freedom and conservative viewpoints.

Background:

The interview began with a discussion of the legislation, which was introduced to amend an existing law called ethnic intimidation, passed in 1986. The amendment removes specific intent as a requirement to commit a hate crime and broadens the definition of what constitutes a hate crime. Under the proposed legislation, speech could be considered a hate crime if it causes a person to feel insulted or intimidated based on their actual or perceived characteristics, including sexual orientation and gender identity or expression.

Concerns Raised:

Matt DePerno expressed deep concerns about the broad and subjective nature of the legislation. He argued that it could potentially criminalize speech that expresses conservative or religious beliefs and even public teaching or broadcasting of Biblical passages of scripture. For instance, pastors who mention the LGBTQ community could be considered guilty of a felony, as their words could be interpreted as causing offense or intimidation. The removal of specific intent and the focus on how the victim feels rather than a clearly defined criminal act were seen as significant departures from the previous law.

Implications and Potential Consequences:

The potential penalties under the proposed legislation include imprisonment, fines, or alternative sentences, such as community service and mandated government brainwashing programs to change the values and convictions of the individual charged with a crime. DePerno emphasized the serious consequences of the legislation, stating that it could result in the imprisonment of individuals who express views that offend others. Additionally, the law allows for civil penalties, enabling individuals to sue for damages if they feel offended or intimidated. This raised concerns about the potential chilling effect on free speech and the inhibition of individuals, including Christian broadcasters, from expressing their beliefs.

Political Landscape and Future Outlook:

DePerno mentioned that the legislation had already passed the House of Representatives and was likely to be approved in the Democrat-controlled Senate. Governor Whitmer, who has shown support for the bill, is expected to sign it into law. While DePerno acknowledged the potential for legal challenges on constitutional grounds, he stressed the need for people to actively fight against the law and its implications.

Conclusion:

The interview between Brannon Howse and attorney Matt DePerno highlighted the controversial nature of the proposed hate crime legislation in Michigan. Concerns were raised regarding its impact on free speech, religious freedom, and the potential criminalization of conservative viewpoints.

Click here to watch this segment of Brannon Howse Live:
https://www.worldviewweekend.com/tv/video/michigan-law-will-criminalize…

This article is sponsored as a public service of the Worldview Weekend Foundation. Thank you for your contribution to www.wvwfoundation.com so we can continue to offer this FREE service.

You can also send your contribution to:

Worldview Weekend Foundation
P.O. Box 1690
Collierville, TN 38027

Click here and visit www.wvwtvstore.com to order emergency, freeze-dried food that will last 25 years and vital emergency supplies or call 901-468-9357.