Bill
HF 3504
Creates a distinct crime for physically assaulting hospital or clinic security officers to protect healthcare security personnel.
HF 3504 seeks to establish a standalone criminal offense for physically assaulting a hospital or clinic security officer. The bill aims to enhance protections for health-care security personnel by creating clear legal consequences for assaults against them while performing their duties in health-care settings.
New offense created: The bill defines and establishes a crime of physically assaulting a hospital or clinic security officer. While the full statutory language is not provided here, the offense would apply when an individual commits physical violence against a security officer employed by a hospital or clinic, presumably during the officer’s official duties.
Scope of protected individuals: The target of the offense is security officers working in hospitals or clinics, i.e., health-care security personnel. This is in addition to existing assault statutes that cover other public safety personnel or general violence.
Elements of the offense: The bill would specify the typical elements for a criminal statute of this type (e.g., intentional or reckless physical contact or injury, absence of valid excuse, and the officer status in the performance of duties). The exact elements (e.g., degrees of assault, presence of injury, use of weapon, etc.) are not stated in the summary provided.
Penalties: HF 3504 would set penalties for this offense. The bill likely delineates different levels (e.g., misdemeanors versus felonies) based on factors such as injury, use of a weapon, or repeated offenses. Specific penalty ranges (severity, fines, imprisonment terms) are not included in the available information.
Enhancements or special circumstances: The bill may include enhancements if the assault occurs against a security officer performing duties in a hospital or clinic, or if aggravating factors (e.g., assault on a protected class, use of a weapon) are present. Details are not provided in the available summary.
Primary victims: Hospital and clinic security officers not previously protected specifically by a distinct offense for assault against them.
Health-care facilities: Hospitals and clinics employing security personnel would be affected by the new offense, potentially impacting how incidents are charged and prosecuted.
Law enforcement and prosecutors: Courts and prosecutors would apply the new statute when charging and trying cases involving assaults on health-care security staff.
Introduction and referral: HF 3504 was introduced and assigned to the Public Safety Finance and Policy committee on February 19, 2026.
Sponsors: Primary sponsor (as listed) includes a co-sponsor, Bidal Duran, indicating cross-party or coalition support in the bill’s development.
Next steps: The bill will undergo committee review, potential amendments, and a floor vote. Its progression depends on committee hearings, fiscal notes, and broader legislative priorities for the session.
Note: For a precise understanding of the offense’s elements, penalties, and any linked sentencing guidelines or exceptions, the bill’s full text and fiscal note would be needed.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
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