The bill H. 4336 aims to amend Section 16-3-600 of the South Carolina Code of Laws, which pertains to assault and battery offenses. The proposed changes specify that an assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature occurs when a person injures certain designated individuals, including federal, state, or local law enforcement officers, corrections officers, healthcare professionals, emergency response employees, or educational professionals, during or because of their official duties. The bill outlines that such actions are classified as felonies, with a maximum imprisonment of twenty years upon conviction.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature is considered a lesser-included offense of attempted murder. It also includes a provision ensuring that the repeal or amendment of any law by this act does not affect pending actions, rights, duties, or liabilities that were established under the previous law. The act will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
04/09/2025: 16-3-600
Latest Version: 16-3-600