The bill amends Section 708.3A of the Iowa Code to enhance penalties for assaults against members of protected occupations, which include correctional staff, health care providers, and law enforcement personnel, among others. It establishes that an assault committed with knowledge that the victim is a member of a protected occupation is classified as a class C felony, punishable by up to 10 years of confinement and significant fines. Additionally, assaults involving the use of a weapon or causing bodily injury are classified as class D felonies, while other assaults, including those that result in contact with bodily fluids, are categorized as aggravated misdemeanors. The bill mandates a minimum confinement of seven days for those convicted of aggravated misdemeanors, with no eligibility for deferral or suspension of this minimum term.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a provision allowing victims of such assaults to request a court-issued search warrant for testing the assailant for communicable diseases if there is reason to believe the assailant may be infected. The medical professional conducting the test is required to inform the victim of the results as soon as practicable. This legislative change aims to provide additional protections and support for individuals in protected occupations who may face health risks as a result of violent encounters.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 708.3A