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Bill

A 5369

Creates the crime of harassment of a first responder

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Joe Angelino and 17 co-sponsors

Bill A 5369 makes harassment of first responders a crime, protecting police, firefighters, and EMTs from intimidation while ensuring safer community responses.

REFERRED TO CODES
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · A 5369

Summary of Bill A 5369: Harassment of a First Responder

Bill Overview

  • Bill Number: A 5369
  • Title: Creates the crime of harassment of a first responder
  • Status: Referred to Codes
  • Introduced: February 13, 2025
  • Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill A 5369 aims to establish a new criminal offense specifically targeting the harassment of first responders. The intent behind this legislation is to protect individuals who serve in emergency roles, such as police officers, firefighters, and emergency medical personnel, from harassment while they perform their duties. The bill recognizes the critical role first responders play in public safety and seeks to ensure they can operate without fear of intimidation or harassment.

Key Provisions

  • Definition of Harassment: The bill defines harassment of a first responder as any intentional act that causes a first responder to feel threatened, intimidated, or alarmed while they are engaged in their official duties.
  • Penalties: The bill outlines specific penalties for individuals found guilty of this offense, which may include fines and/or imprisonment, although exact amounts and durations are not specified in the current version.
  • Scope of Protection: The bill extends its protections to all first responders, ensuring that any form of harassment, whether verbal or physical, is addressed under this new statute.

Affected Parties

  • First Responders: The primary beneficiaries of this legislation are first responders, including police officers, firefighters, and emergency medical technicians, who may face harassment in the line of duty.
  • General Public: The bill also indirectly affects the general public by promoting a safer environment for first responders, which can enhance overall community safety and response effectiveness.

Procedural Aspects

  • Legislative Process: As of February 13, 2025, Bill A 5369 has been referred to the Codes Committee for further consideration. This step is crucial for the bill's advancement through the legislative process.
  • Companion Bill: There is a related companion bill, S 4258, which may provide additional context or support for the provisions outlined in A 5369.

Conclusion

Bill A 5369 represents a significant step towards safeguarding first responders from harassment, thereby reinforcing their ability to serve the community effectively. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, further details regarding penalties and enforcement mechanisms may be clarified, contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of its implications.

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

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