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 likely to cause serious harm. 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 a judicial proceeding, among others.

Notably, the bill introduces new legal language by including "hospital worker" alongside "emergency department worker" in the list of individuals whose assault would elevate the offense to a class C felony. This change aims to enhance protections for those working in emergency and healthcare settings while maintaining the existing penalties for simple assault, which is classified as a class B misdemeanor in other cases.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 12.1-17-01