Washington, Jan 24 (NationPress) Legislation aimed at enhancing the federal approach to combat anti-Sikh discrimination and hate crimes is gathering bipartisan support within the US House of Representatives, as Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren steps in as a co-sponsor.

The Sikh American Anti-Discrimination Act of 2025, referred to as H.R. 7100, now enjoys the backing of Lofgren, a Democrat representing California and serving as vice chair of the American Sikh Congressional Caucus. The bill was introduced earlier this month by Congressman Josh Gottheimer from New Jersey.

“No religious group should ever feel threatened while worshiping in America,” Lofgren stated. “Sikh Americans have experienced a rise in hate crimes and discrimination, making it vital for the Department of Justice to focus on this pressing issue. I’m honored to represent a significant Sikh community in San Jose, and I will do everything within my power to ensure the federal government addresses anti-Sikh discrimination.”

Gottheimer highlighted that the legislation addresses concerns voiced by Sikh families and community leaders. “After directly engaging with Sikh families and community leaders in North Jersey, it’s evident that Congress must take decisive action,” he remarked. “The bipartisan Sikh American Anti-Discrimination Act will transform these discussions into concrete actions—enhancing how our federal government defines, tracks, and prevents anti-Sikh hate crimes, ensuring every American can practice their faith freely and safely.”

If passed, the proposed law would instruct the Department of Justice to form a Task Force on Anti-Sikh Discrimination, responsible for creating an official federal definition of anti-Sikh hate. This task force would also devise educational initiatives for schools, law enforcement, and higher education institutions, while supplying Congress with an annual report on hate crimes and discrimination against Sikh Americans.

According to sponsors, the task force, as proposed in the bill, would collaborate directly with Sikh communities and advocacy groups to develop prevention strategies and enforcement measures.

Various national Sikh organizations, including the Sikh Coalition, the Sikh American Legal Defence and Education Fund (SALDEF), and the American Sikh Caucus Committee, have expressed their support for the legislation. Advocates stress the necessity of federal intervention to tackle anti-Sikh discrimination and urge lawmakers to pass this essential bill, highlighting the urgency for immediate action.