The bill amends section 81c of the Michigan penal code to enhance protections for employees of the Department of Health and Human Services and private agencies under contract with the department. It redefines the language surrounding threats, intimidation, and harassment directed at these employees, specifying that individuals who threaten, intimidate, or harass them can be charged with a misdemeanor punishable by up to one year in prison or a fine of up to $1,000. The bill also establishes that individuals who assault or batter these employees while they are performing their duties can face felony charges, with penalties increasing based on the severity of the injury caused.

Key changes include the replacement of "a person" with "an individual" throughout the section, and the inclusion of specific definitions for "harass" and "intimidate." The bill clarifies that serious impairment of a body function is defined according to the Michigan vehicle code. Additionally, it states that a conviction under this section does not preclude charges under other applicable laws. The amendments are set to take effect 90 days after the bill is enacted into law.

Statutes affected:
House Introduced Bill: 750.81