Bill > S717

This bill enhances the legal penalties for assault involving strangulation by modifying North Carolina's existing criminal statutes. Specifically, the bill reclassifies felony levels for different types of assault involving serious bodily injury and strangulation, generally increasing the severity of potential punishments. Under the new law, assaults causing serious bodily injury would be elevated from a Class F to a Class E felony, while strangulation offenses would be reclassified from a Class H to a Class G felony. The bill also adds a new offense category for general strangulation, defined as impeding normal breathing or blood circulation by applying pressure to the throat, neck, or obstructing the nose and mouth. Additionally, the bill provides clear definitions for "serious bodily injury" and "strangulation", which include creating a substantial risk of death, causing permanent disfigurement, or impairing bodily functions. The changes will take effect on June 1, 2025, and will apply to offenses committed on or after that date, potentially providing stronger legal protections against domestic violence and assault.

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/S717