The bill H. 3093 aims to amend Section 16-3-600 of the South Carolina Code of Laws to enhance the legal protections for healthcare workers and emergency response employees. Specifically, it introduces a provision that classifies the assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature as occurring when a person injures a healthcare worker or emergency response employee while they are performing their official duties. This addition emphasizes the seriousness of such offenses and aligns with the definitions provided in Section 44-29-230.

Under the proposed changes, individuals found guilty of this offense would face felony charges, with potential imprisonment of up to twenty years. The bill also clarifies that assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature is considered a lesser-included offense of attempted murder. Additionally, the bill ensures that any amendments or repeals do not affect pending legal actions or rights, maintaining the enforceability of existing laws until the new provisions take effect upon the Governor's approval.

Statutes affected:
12/05/2024: 16-3-600
Latest Version: 16-3-600
12/06/2024: 16-3-600