The proposed bill would amend current statutes related to aggravated assault by adding elected officials and animal control officers as protected persons under the aggravated assault classification. Specifically, it would classify assault against these individuals as aggravated assault if the perpetrator knows or has reason to know that the victim is an animal control officer or an elected official while they are engaged in their official duties. This change would also establish that such assaults are classified as a class 6 felony.
Additionally, the bill consolidates various statutory changes from previous laws and repeals outdated versions of the aggravated assault statute. It makes technical and conforming changes to ensure clarity and consistency within the law. The bill also includes provisions for enhanced sentencing for aggravated assaults against peace officers, ensuring that individuals convicted of such offenses face stricter penalties. Overall, the bill aims to strengthen protections for specific public service roles while streamlining existing legal language.