(Carson City, NV) — The Nevada Senate has approved a bill to include transgender people in Nevada’s hate crimes statute.

Lawmakers passed the measure yesterday by a 20-to-1 vote.

It adds extra punishment to sentences of those convicted of crimes motivated by gender identity.

Critics say the additional designation as a “hate crime” punishes thoughts, since the law already prescribes punishment for the actions.

The measure now goes to the Assembly for approval.