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"This week, the House of Representatives isexpected to consider H.R. 1913, the Local Law Enforcement Hate Crimes PreventionAct of 2009.  I urge members on both sides of the aisle to act on thisimportant civil rights issue by passing this legislation to protect all of ourcitizens from violent acts of intolerance - legislation that will enhancecivil rights protections, while also protecting our freedom of speech andassociation.  I also urge the Senate to work with my Administration tofinalize this bill and to take swift action" - President Barack Obama

- The White House