Obama Hails Expanded Hate Crimes Law

(AP)  President Barack Obama says a newly expanded hate crimes law will allow the nation's people to "live and love as we see fit."

The law extends federal hate crimes to include those perpetrated against people because of sexual orientation, gender identity or disability. It also removes restrictions on when the federal government can intervene in investigating and prosecuting hate crimes.

Obama signed the bill into law earlier in the day. He held a separate White House ceremony to celebrate it with joyous supporters.

Advocates hail the law as major step toward more freedom and against bigotry.