The Matthew Shepard and James Byrd, Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act is a U.S. federal law enacted in 2009. It expands the definition of hate crimes to include those motivated by a victim's sexual orientation, gender identity, or disability. The law allows federal authorities to assist in the investigation and prosecution of hate crimes, enhancing protections for marginalized communities. The act is named after two victims of brutal hate crimes: Matthew Shepard, a gay college student murdered in 1998, and James Byrd, Jr., an African American man who was killed in a racially motivated attack in 1998. This legislation aims to deter hate crimes and promote justice for affected individuals and communities.