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Bill

Bill

A 2198

Establishes the crime of assault on a pregnant person

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Joe Angelino and 19 co-sponsors

Bill A 2198 establishes penalties for assaulting pregnant individuals, enhancing legal protections for them and their unborn children against violence.

REFERRED TO CODES
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · A 2198

Summary of Bill A 2198: Establishes the Crime of Assault on a Pregnant Person

Purpose and Intent

Bill A 2198 aims to establish a specific legal framework for addressing assaults on pregnant individuals. The intent of this legislation is to recognize the unique vulnerabilities faced by pregnant persons and to enhance legal protections against acts of violence that could harm both the individual and the unborn child.

Key Provisions

  • Definition of Assault on a Pregnant Person: The bill defines the crime of assault on a pregnant person, outlining the circumstances under which an assault would be considered a distinct offense.
  • Penalties: The legislation proposes specific penalties for individuals convicted of assaulting a pregnant person, which may include increased fines and longer prison sentences compared to standard assault charges.
  • Consideration of Harm to the Unborn Child: The bill emphasizes the potential harm to the unborn child as a significant factor in determining the severity of the offense and the corresponding penalties.

Affected Parties

  • Pregnant Individuals: The primary beneficiaries of this legislation are pregnant persons who may be at risk of assault. The bill seeks to provide them with greater legal protection and recourse in the event of violence.
  • Law Enforcement and Judicial System: The bill will require law enforcement agencies and the judicial system to adapt to the new definitions and penalties, potentially leading to changes in training and prosecution strategies.

Procedural Aspects

  • Introduced Date: The bill was introduced on January 15, 2025.
  • Current Status: As of now, the bill has been referred to the Codes Committee for further consideration.
  • Related Legislation: This bill is related to prior-session bills A 6799, A 4367, and A 3604, which may have addressed similar issues or provided a foundation for the current proposal.

Conclusion

Bill A 2198 represents a significant step towards enhancing the legal protections for pregnant individuals against assault. By establishing clear definitions and penalties, the bill aims to deter violence and ensure that the unique circumstances of pregnancy are taken into account within the legal system. As the bill progresses through the legislative process, its implications for both victims and the legal framework will be closely monitored.

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

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