The bill amends section 12.1-17-01 of the North Dakota Century Code, which pertains to simple assault. It specifies that a person is guilty of simple assault if they willfully or negligently cause bodily injury to another individual, particularly when using a firearm, destructive device, or other weapon that could likely result in death or serious bodily injury.

A significant change in the bill is the insertion of language that classifies the offense as a class C felony if the victim is a peace officer, correctional institution employee, state hospital employee (when the actor is committed or detained), a person involved in a judicial proceeding, or a member of emergency services engaged in essential patient care. This addition broadens the scope of protected individuals under the law, emphasizing the seriousness of assaults against those performing critical public safety and health roles. In all other cases, the offense remains classified as a class B misdemeanor.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 12.1-17-01
Adopted by the Senate Judiciary Committee: 12.1-17-01
Enrollment: 12.1-17-01