The bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 609.2231, to expand the definition of fourth-degree assault to include specific protections for nurses, physicians, and other healthcare providers. The new language specifies that anyone who physically assaults and inflicts demonstrable bodily harm on these individuals is guilty of a felony, punishable by imprisonment for up to two years or a fine of up to $4,000, or both. This addition aims to enhance the legal protections for healthcare workers who may face violence in the course of their duties.

Additionally, the bill modifies existing language regarding the assault of emergency personnel by removing references to specific categories of individuals and instead broadening the scope to include any member of a municipal or volunteer fire department or emergency medical services personnel. The effective date for these changes is set for August 1, 2025, and they will apply to crimes committed on or after that date.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 609.2231