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HB 51

Crimes and offenses; assault in the second degree, harassment, and harassing communications, further provided

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Donna Givens

HB 51 strengthens protections against assault and harassment by redefining offenses, broadening definitions, and clarifying penalties, aiding victims and law enforcement.

Read for the first time and referred to the House Committee on Judiciary
#crimes&offenses
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Bill Summary · HB 51

Summary of HB 51: Crimes and Offenses; Assault in the Second Degree, Harassment, and Harassing Communications

Bill Number: HB 51
Introduced On: November 05, 2025
Status: Read for the first time and referred to the House Committee on Judiciary
Classification: Bill
Subject: Crimes & Offenses

Purpose and Intent

HB 51 aims to amend existing laws related to crimes and offenses, specifically focusing on the definitions and penalties associated with assault in the second degree, harassment, and harassing communications. The bill seeks to clarify legal definitions and enhance protections for individuals who may be victims of these offenses.

Key Provisions

The bill includes several significant changes and clarifications:

  1. Assault in the Second Degree:

    • The bill proposes to redefine the criteria for what constitutes assault in the second degree, potentially expanding the circumstances under which individuals can be charged.
    • It may introduce specific examples of actions that qualify as second-degree assault, thereby providing clearer guidelines for law enforcement and the judiciary.

  2. Harassment:

    • HB 51 aims to broaden the definition of harassment to include a wider range of behaviors that could be considered threatening or intimidating.
    • The bill may establish clearer thresholds for what constitutes harassment, making it easier for victims to seek legal recourse.

  3. Harassing Communications:

    • The legislation seeks to address the issue of harassing communications by defining what constitutes such communications and outlining the penalties for offenders.
    • It may include provisions for electronic communications, recognizing the evolving nature of harassment in the digital age.

Impact

  • Victims: The bill is designed to provide greater protection and recourse for victims of assault and harassment, potentially leading to increased reporting of such crimes.
  • Law Enforcement: By clarifying definitions and expanding the scope of offenses, law enforcement agencies may have more tools to address and prosecute these crimes effectively.
  • Judiciary: The bill could impact how cases are prosecuted and adjudicated, as clearer definitions may lead to more consistent application of the law.

Procedural Aspects

  • Committee Review: After its introduction, HB 51 has been referred to the House Committee on Judiciary for further consideration. The committee will review the bill, hold hearings, and may propose amendments before it is brought back to the full House for a vote.
  • Timeline: The timeline for the bill's progression through the legislative process will depend on the committee's schedule and any subsequent actions taken by the House.

In summary, HB 51 seeks to enhance legal protections against assault and harassment by refining definitions and expanding the scope of offenses. Its successful passage could lead to significant changes in how these crimes are addressed within the legal system.

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

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