The proposed Courtroom Employee Protection Act seeks to amend section 2903.13 of the Revised Code to increase penalties for assault 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, thereby intensifying the punishment. Additionally, it raises the maximum fine for these offenses from $5,000 to $7,500. The legislation also clarifies the definitions of various judicial roles to ensure that protections are comprehensive and extend to all relevant personnel, aiming to enhance safety and deter potential assaults in the courtroom.

Furthermore, the bill introduces new definitions and protections for emergency service responders, including law enforcement officers, firefighters, and emergency medical technicians. It establishes terms such as "family or household member," "first responder," and "co-worker," which define the relationships and contexts in which these individuals operate. The act also repeals the existing section 2903.13 of the Revised Code, indicating a significant overhaul of the legal framework surrounding these protections. Overall, the Courtroom Employee Protection Act aims to provide a clearer legal structure for the roles and relationships of emergency service responders and their families, enhancing their safety and legal protections.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 2903.13