Bill > HB1055

This bill adds a new section to Pennsylvania's criminal code that specifically criminalizes intimidation of health care workers. Under the proposed law, a person commits an offense if they knowingly and willfully make a threat (either orally or in writing) against a health care practitioner, technician, or hospital security officer with the intent to intimidate, interfere with, or impede their official duties. The bill establishes a graduated penalty system where a first offense is classified as a summary offense, while subsequent offenses become third-degree misdemeanors. The law requires health care facilities to post notices about this offense at public entrances, and no person can be convicted if the notice was not posted unless they had actual prior knowledge of the offense. The bill also provides specific definitions for key terms like "health care facility," "health care practitioner," "hospital security officer," and "technician," drawing these definitions from existing Pennsylvania healthcare legislation. The new law would take effect 60 days after its passage, providing time for healthcare facilities to implement the required notice postings and for workers and the public to become aware of the new legal provisions.

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https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/bill_history.cfm?syear=2025&sind=0&body=H&type=B&bn=1055