The bill H. 5005 seeks to amend Section 16-3-600 of the South Carolina Code of Laws regarding assault and battery offenses. It specifically defines "assault and battery of a high and aggravated nature" to include actions such as threatening, intimidating, harassing, stalking, or injuring certain professionals—namely law enforcement officers, corrections officers, healthcare professionals, emergency response employees, and educational professionals—while they are performing their official duties. The bill establishes that such offenses are felonies, punishable by imprisonment for a minimum of ten years and a maximum of twenty years.

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 provisions to ensure that the repeal or amendment of any law by this act does not affect pending actions or rights, maintaining the enforceability of any penalties or liabilities incurred under the previous laws. The act will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
01/22/2026: 16-3-600
Latest Version: 16-3-600