The bill H.255 aims to enhance criminal penalties for assaults against public transit workers, recognizing them as protected professionals under Vermont law. It amends 13 V.S.A. § 1028 to include public transit workers in the definition of "protected professional," which previously encompassed law enforcement officers, firefighters, health care workers, and others. The bill stipulates that individuals convicted of simple or aggravated assault against a public transit worker while they are performing their lawful duties will face increased penalties: up to one year of imprisonment for a first offense and up to ten years for subsequent offenses.

Additionally, the bill addresses the intentional exposure of bodily fluids to protected professionals, establishing a penalty of up to one year in prison or a fine of up to $1,000 for such actions. The court is required to consider the mental health status of the defendant at the time of the offense when imposing a sentence. The bill is set to take effect upon passage, reinforcing the state's commitment to protecting public transit workers from violence while they serve the community.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 13-1028