Bill > HB390

This bill, known as the HALO Act, amends Georgia's legal code to expand the list of felony offenses that can impact judicial release (a process where a defendant can be released from custody before trial). Specifically, the bill adds three new types of felony violations related to obstructing or hindering first responders: obstructing law enforcement officers, obstructing firefighters, and obstructing emergency medical technicians or professionals. By adding these specific felony violations to the existing law, the bill ensures that individuals who commit serious offenses against first responders will face stricter conditions when seeking release before trial. The term "first responders" in this context includes police officers, firefighters, and emergency medical personnel, and the bill strengthens legal protections for these critical public service professionals by making interference with their duties a more serious criminal offense that can affect a defendant's pre-trial release eligibility.

Justice

https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/70191