The Courtroom Employee Protection Act proposes significant amendments to section 2903.13 of the Revised Code, primarily aimed at increasing penalties for assaults against judges, magistrates, prosecutors, and court officials or employees. The bill reclassifies such assaults from a misdemeanor of the first degree to a felony of the fourth degree, allowing for fines of up to $7,500 for offenders. It also stipulates that if an offender has a prior conviction for assault or homicide against justice system personnel, the offense will be classified as a felony of the fifth degree. This legislative change is designed to enhance the safety of courtroom personnel by imposing stricter penalties for violent acts committed against them while performing their official duties.

In addition to the provisions related to courtroom personnel, the bill introduces new definitions concerning emergency service responders and their families, clarifying the relationships and roles of individuals associated with these responders. It defines terms such as "emergency service responder," "family or household member," and "co-worker," ensuring that the rights and protections of emergency service personnel and their families are recognized within the legal framework. The bill also includes a repeal of the existing section 2903.13, which may have previously governed the protection of courtroom employees, thereby updating and enhancing the legal protections afforded to these individuals.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 2903.13