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A 8954

Categorizes the assault of a code enforcement official or other individual responsible for building inspection as a class D felony

2025 Regular Session Introduced by John McDonald

A 8954 - Categorizing Assault of Code Enforcement Officials as a Felony OverviewBill Number: A 8954 Title: Categorizes the assault of a code enforcement official or other individu

REFERRED TO CODES
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Bill Summary · A 8954

A 8954 - Categorizing Assault of Code Enforcement Officials as a Felony

Overview

Bill Number: A 8954
Title: Categorizes the assault of a code enforcement official or other individual responsible for building inspection as a class D felony
Status: REFERRED TO CODES
Introduced: July 18, 2025

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of this bill is to enhance protections for code enforcement officials and building inspectors by categorizing assaults against them as a more serious criminal offense. The intent is to deter violence and ensure the safety of these public servants as they carry out their duties to uphold building codes and regulations.

Key Provisions

  • Amends the state penal code to classify the assault of a code enforcement official or building inspector as a class D felony, punishable by up to 7 years in prison
  • Defines "code enforcement official" and "building inspector" to include any individual responsible for inspecting, investigating, or enforcing compliance with state or local building, housing, or safety codes
  • Specifies that the felony charge applies when the official is engaged in the performance of their duties or as a result of such duties
  • Allows for enhanced penalties if the assault involves the use of a deadly weapon or causes serious physical injury

Affected Parties and Impacts

  • Code enforcement officials and building inspectors would be afforded greater legal protections against assault and violence while carrying out their professional responsibilities
  • Property owners, developers, and others subject to code enforcement may face more severe criminal consequences for assaulting these officials
  • The legislation aims to improve the safety and working conditions for code enforcement personnel, potentially making these roles more attractive and improving recruitment and retention

Procedural and Timeline Considerations

This bill has been referred to the state legislature's Codes Committee for initial consideration and review. If approved by the committee, it would then proceed to a full floor vote in the state assembly. Given the bipartisan support for enhancing protections for public servants, the bill has a reasonable chance of advancing through the legislative process, though the timeline for potential enactment remains uncertain.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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