The bill H.255 proposes to enhance criminal penalties for assaults against public transit workers, categorizing them as "protected professionals." It amends 13 V.S.A. § 1028 to include public transit workers in the definition of protected professionals, alongside 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 introduces specific definitions for public transit workers, which include drivers and employees who assist transit riders at transit centers. The language of the bill also clarifies that the term "protected professional" is now defined to mean these workers, and it modifies the phrasing regarding the duties of these professionals. The act is set to take effect upon passage, emphasizing the urgency of protecting public transit workers from violence while they perform their essential roles.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 13-1028