This bill amends the definition of "health care professional" in the aggravated assault statute (N.J.S.A.2C:12-1) to align with the definition established under the Health Care Heroes Violence Prevention Act (P.L.2023, c.48). The current law specifies that aggravated assault against a health care worker occurs when the assault is committed against individuals employed by licensed health care facilities to provide direct patient care or those licensed to practice health care professions, with certain exceptions. The proposed changes will broaden this definition to include any health care professional, volunteers, supportive services staff, or employees of health care professionals or facilities while they are performing their official duties.

The bill also removes the previous language that excluded direct care workers at State or county psychiatric hospitals or veterans' memorial homes from the definition of health care professionals. By revising this definition, the bill aims to enhance protections for health care workers and ensure that those who commit assaults against them face appropriate consequences, including mandatory anger management courses and community service as stipulated in the Health Care Heroes Violence Prevention Act. The bill is set to take effect immediately upon passage.