CLAIM: Washington state passed a bill that will incentivize people to report hate speech and bias on a 24/7 hotline with a cash reward.
AP’S ASSESSMENT: False. The final version of the bill, SB 5427, signed by Washington Gov. Jay Inslee, a Democrat, on Tuesday, does not offer any such compensation. In its original version, the bill outlined a fund that would have allowed for victims of hate crimes or bias incidents to receive up to $2,000. All versions of the bill stipulate the establishment of a reporting hotline that will be staffed during business hours, not 24/7.
THE FACTS: Soon after the bill was signed into law, social media users falsely claimed that it will allow people to tattletale on members of their community for financial gain.
“Not satire: Washington state has passed a law offering cash as an incentive to report hate speech and bias via a 24/7 hotline,” reads one X post that had received approximately 9,900 likes and shares as of Friday.
Xi Extends Condolences to Angolan President over Disastrous Heavy Rains
If you're retired or about to retire, think carefully about your tax strategy
Cannes sets lineup with Lanthimos, Coppola and Trump film 'The Apprentice'
Martin Wygod, former health care executive turned successful horse breeder and owner, dies at 84
Review: 'Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire' clears a low bar
Stock market today: Asian shares are mixed, taking hot US inflation data in stride
Russia aborts planned test launch of new space rocket
Xi Urges Submarine Crew to Become Elite Force
UN climate chief says humans have 2 years left 'to save the world'
Forest Law builds legal protection for ecology
Total solar eclipse 2024: Spectators stake their spots along the totality path