Bill > HB203

This bill expands the legal definition of "special victim" to include staff members of the Division of Youth Services who are assaulted while performing their official duties or as a direct result of their duties. Specifically, the bill modifies section 565.002 of Missouri state law by adding a new subsection (l) to the existing list of special victims, which already includes categories such as law enforcement officers, emergency personnel, probation officers, elderly persons, persons with disabilities, and utility workers. The term "special victim" is significant in criminal law, as it can affect how certain assault or violence-related crimes are charged and potentially sentenced. By adding Division of Youth Services staff to this protected category, the bill recognizes the potentially dangerous nature of their work with youth and provides them with additional legal protections. The modification ensures that assaults against these staff members receive heightened legal consideration, similar to other professionals who work in high-risk or public service environments.

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB203&year=2025&code=R