Bill > SB20

This bill amends Alabama's second-degree assault statute to expand protections for various public officials and workers by establishing specific provisions for assault against them. The bill updates the existing law to replace the word "person" with "individual" throughout and adds a new subsection that explicitly makes it a Class C felony to assault current or former local, state, or federal public officials during or because of their official duties. The legislation also provides detailed clarifications about who qualifies as a peace officer, utility worker, and health care worker, including specifying that off-duty peace officers in approved uniform performing authorized work are covered under these protections. The bill adds comprehensive definitions for different types of workers, such as utility workers and health care workers, and includes specific provisions about home health care worker protections and exceptions for patient-related assaults. The changes aim to provide clearer legal definitions and enhanced protection for public service professionals across various sectors, ranging from law enforcement and emergency services to healthcare and social work. The bill is set to become effective on October 1, 2026, giving time for legal systems and professionals to prepare for the updated statute.

Justice

https://alison.legislature.state.al.us/bill-search