NJ Becomes 9th State To Ban “Gay Panic” Defense

NBC News reports:

New Jersey on Tuesday became the ninth state to prohibit homicide defendants from claiming that panic brought on by a victim’s sexual orientation or gender identity could be used a legal defense. Democratic Gov. Phil Murphy signed the measure, saying it promotes “full equality for all our residents.”

“Gay and trans panic defenses are rooted in homophobia and abhorrent excuses that should never be used to justify violence against vulnerable populations,” Murphy said in a statement.

The defense amounts to arguing that a gay or transgender victim brought the attack on themselves because of their orientation or identity, the bill’s supporters said. The defense amounts to arguing that a gay or transgender victim brought the attack on themselves because of their orientation or identity, the bill’s supporters said.