This bill amends Title 18 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes to enhance the legal framework surrounding the offense of strangulation. It modifies the grading of the offense, establishing that a violation will generally be classified as a felony of the second degree if committed against a family or household member, by a caretaker against a care-dependent person, or in conjunction with sexual violence or stalking. Additionally, it specifies that a violation will be classified as a felony of the first degree if the defendant has a prior conviction for a similar offense.

Furthermore, the bill introduces a new subsection regarding bail considerations for individuals arrested for strangulation. It mandates that the issuing authority must consider the significant risk of future violent behavior associated with strangulation when setting bail, emphasizing the potential danger to victims and the public. This provision aims to ensure that the seriousness of strangulation offenses is adequately reflected in the judicial process. The act is set to take effect in 60 days.