WeVote
Log In

Bill

PB

Bill

A 5146

Establishes the offenses of menacing a police officer or peace officer in the first degree and menacing a police officer or peace officer in the second degree

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Paul Bologna and 5 co-sponsors

Bill A 5146 establishes criminal offenses for menacing police officers, enhancing their safety with severe penalties for threats and intimidation against them.

REFERRED TO CODES
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · A 5146

Summary of Bill A 5146

Bill Information

  • Bill Number: A 5146
  • Title: Establishes the offenses of menacing a police officer or peace officer in the first degree and menacing a police officer or peace officer in the second degree
  • Status: HELD FOR CONSIDERATION IN CODES
  • Introduced: February 12, 2025
  • Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill A 5146 aims to create specific criminal offenses related to menacing behavior directed towards police officers and peace officers. The legislation seeks to enhance the legal framework surrounding threats and intimidation against law enforcement personnel, thereby promoting their safety and the integrity of law enforcement operations.

Key Provisions

The bill establishes two distinct degrees of the offense of menacing a police officer or peace officer:

  1. Menacing in the First Degree:

    • This offense would apply when an individual intentionally places a police officer or peace officer in fear of imminent serious physical injury.
    • The first-degree charge would likely carry more severe penalties, reflecting the seriousness of the threat posed to law enforcement personnel.

  2. Menacing in the Second Degree:

    • This offense would involve a similar act but may involve less severe circumstances or threats that do not rise to the level of first-degree menacing.
    • The penalties for this degree would be less severe than those for first-degree menacing but still significant enough to deter such behavior.

Impact

The implementation of this bill would primarily affect:
- Law Enforcement Personnel: Police officers and peace officers would have enhanced legal protections against threats and intimidation.
- Individuals Accused of Menacing: Those charged with these offenses would face legal consequences, which could include fines and imprisonment, depending on the degree of the offense.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was introduced on February 12, 2025, and has been referred to the Codes Committee for consideration.
  • As of May 13, 2025, the bill remains held for consideration, indicating that further discussion or amendments may be necessary before it can proceed through the legislative process.

Related Bills

This bill is related to prior-session legislation, including:
- S 8951
- A 6578
- A 6338

These related bills may provide context or additional provisions regarding the treatment of offenses against law enforcement personnel.

Conclusion

Bill A 5146 represents a legislative effort to address the safety of police officers and peace officers by establishing clear legal repercussions for menacing behavior. The bill's progression through the legislative process will determine its final form and potential enactment into law.

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

Sign in to ask a question.