A lawmaker's effort comes after a gay man allegedly was killed by white supremacists.

OKLAHOMA CITY -- An Oklahoma City lawmaker wants to expand the state's hate-crime law to cover sexual orientation and gender.

Rep. Al McAffrey, D-Oklahoma City, also wants to make a violation of that law a felony instead of a misdemeanor. The state's only openly gay lawmaker said the current hate-crime law lists ethnicity and religion, among other things, but not sexual orientation or gender.

McAffrey cited the recent killing in Oklahoma City of a gay man who authorities say was targeted by white supremacists as part of a gang initiation. Investigators believe that Steven Domer, 62, was strangled Oct. 26 by two members of a white-supremacist group who targeted Domer because he was gay.

Darrell Lynn Madden, 37, has been charged with first-degree murder in Domer's slaying and in the shooting death of Madden's friend, Bradley Qualls, 26.

Authorities allege that Madden and Qualls were connected to the United Aryan Brotherhood and killed Madden to earn a place in the gang for Qualls.

McAffrey has some support for his legislation from Oklahoma County District Attorney David Prater, who said the hate-crime law should be more general, covering any crime perpetrated for the purpose of furthering hate.

Prater said it could be used to enhance punishment for other offenses, such as manslaughter, murder and assault and battery.

He said he believes that because hate crimes are now a misdemeanor, some might go unreported for fear of retaliation.

Justice Waidner, executive director of the Tulsa-based Oklahomans for Equality, said violence not only affects people who are gay, lesbian, transgender and bisexual but also those who are simply per ceived to be.

Oklahomans for Equality seeks equal rights for people who are gay, lesbian, transgender or bisexual and their families, she said.

"One of my hopes with regard to this bill is that we can ensure the message is sent that all of our citizens are welcome and safe in our state," Waidner said.

McAffrey said he doesn't think getting the legislation modified will be an easy battle.

Senate President Pro Tem Mike Morgan, D-Stillwater, said he is open to the idea, but lawmakers must consult with prosecutors regarding potential changes.

"It is hard for me to understand how anyone could be an advocate of hate," he said.

Senate Co-President Pro Tem Glenn Coffee, R-Oklahoma City, could not be reached for comment.

Damon Gardenhire, a spokesman for House Speaker Lance Cargill, R-Harrah, said Cargill would reserve comment until he could review specific details of the proposed legislation.

Barbara Hoberock (405) 528-2465
barbara.hoberock@tulsaworld.com