The bill amends section 12.1-17-01 of the North Dakota Century Code, which pertains to simple assault. It specifies that a person can be charged with 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. The bill outlines the penalties associated with the offense, categorizing it as a class C felony under certain circumstances, such as when the victim is a peace officer, correctional institution employee, or engaged in essential patient care as a hospital worker.

A significant insertion in the bill is the inclusion of "or hospital worker, engaged in essential patient care," which expands the list of individuals who are afforded greater protection under the law when they are performing their duties. The bill maintains that, in other cases, simple assault is classified as a class B misdemeanor. This amendment aims to enhance the legal framework surrounding simple assault and provide additional safeguards for those in critical roles within the community.

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