A New York hate crimes task force is being created with $1 million set aside by the state in its new budget.
Democratic Gov. Andrew Cuomo's office says the group will include members of the New York State Police working with the state Division of Human Rights as well as prosecutors and local school and law enforcement officials.
The task force will be charged with identifying and investigating hate crimes and discriminatory practices.
Cuomo has said the state has an obligation to protect its residents from crimes motivated by bias or bigotry.
Lawmakers passed the budget earlier this month.
© Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.