IRMO, S.C. — The town of Irmo has officially passed a hate intimidation ordinance.

Council members voted to approve the measure Tuesday night, making Irmo one of only a handful of municipalities in South Carolina to pass this type of law. South Carolina does not have a hate crime bill.

The ordinance was added to the town’s municipal code under Chapter 22, making hate intimidation illegal in Irmo.

The ordinance was brought to council by Phyllis Coleman.

“Well, it feels wonderful number one and also part of the reason I’m on the council is sort of like if not me then who. You can’t keep waiting for somebody to do it for you,” Coleman said.

Community members said the vote sends a strong message.

“I feel relieved that our town council has come together to pass this ordinance because wit

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