Bill > SB0299

This bill modifies Utah's assault and aggravated assault laws by introducing a specific definition of "chokehold" as a restraining hold that encircles an individual's neck in a viselike grip using an arm. The bill adds language to both assault and aggravated assault statutes that creates an exception for chokeholds performed during legitimate athletic training or sporting activities where such techniques are known and acceptable, such as martial arts, wrestling, or mixed martial arts. For these exemptions to apply, both the person applying the chokehold and the recipient must be participating in the same sport or training where chokeholds are a recognized practice. The bill clarifies existing assault penalties, which range from class B misdemeanors to class A misdemeanors depending on the severity of injury, and maintains the existing penalty structure for aggravated assault, which can be a third-degree felony escalating to a second or first-degree felony under certain circumstances. The legislation is set to take effect on May 7, 2025, providing clarity and specific legal guidelines around the use of chokeholds in different contexts.

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https://le.utah.gov/~2025/bills/static/SB0299.html