Bill Adds News Penalties For Crimes Against First Responders

North Carolina lawmakers are considering a new felony "hate crimes" bill aimed at protecting the state's first responders.

The legislation would designate “hate crime” status for assaults on North Carolina firefighters, police officers and other medical personnel, and for those who lure first responders to locations to attack them.

A House judiciary committee voted Wednesday for a wide-ranging measure from several Republicans. It also provides tax breaks for volunteer fire and rescue workers and spouses of law enforcement killed in the line of duty.

Getting the most attention are proposed offenses for people who assault emergency responders simply because of their occupation. Bill sponsor Rep. Carl Ford of China Grove says the legislation is about protecting the lives of emergency personnel.

Democrats and Republicans raised concerns, calling the offenses outlined in the bill duplicative or unclear.

The Asssociated Press contributed to this report.