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.

Additionally, the bill establishes that the offense is classified 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 their duties. A new insertion expands this list to include "hospital workers engaged in essential patient care." If the assault does not meet these criteria, it is 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