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S 5449

Relates to increasing the penalties for assault on police officers, peace officers, firefighters and emergency medical technicians

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Leroy Comrie

Bill S 5449 increases penalties for assaults on police, firefighters, and EMTs, aiming to deter violence and enhance safety for these essential first responders.

REFERRED TO CODES
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · S 5449

Summary of Bill S 5449

Bill Information

  • Bill Number: S 5449
  • Title: Relates to increasing the penalties for assault on police officers, peace officers, firefighters, and emergency medical technicians
  • Status: Referred to Codes
  • Introduced: February 21, 2025
  • Classification: Bill

Purpose and Intent

Bill S 5449 aims to enhance the penalties associated with assaults against law enforcement officers, peace officers, firefighters, and emergency medical technicians (EMTs). The intent of this legislation is to provide greater protection for these first responders, acknowledging the risks they face while performing their duties and aiming to deter potential assaults.

Key Provisions

  • Increased Penalties: The bill proposes to increase the severity of penalties for individuals convicted of assaulting police officers, peace officers, firefighters, and EMTs.
  • Classification of Offenses: The bill may reclassify certain assault offenses against these individuals, potentially elevating them from misdemeanors to felonies, depending on the circumstances of the assault.
  • Enhanced Sentencing Guidelines: The legislation may include specific sentencing guidelines that mandate longer prison terms for offenders who assault first responders.

Affected Parties

  • First Responders: The primary beneficiaries of this bill are police officers, peace officers, firefighters, and EMTs, who are at risk of assault while serving the public.
  • Offenders: Individuals convicted of assaulting these professionals would face harsher penalties, which could lead to longer incarceration periods.
  • Public Safety: The bill is designed to enhance overall public safety by protecting those who respond to emergencies and maintain order in society.

Procedural Aspects

  • Current Status: As of February 21, 2025, the bill has been referred to the Codes Committee for further consideration.
  • Related Legislation: This bill is related to several prior-session bills, including:
    • A 10989
    • A 4996
    • S 6221
    • A 4192 (companion bill)

Conclusion

Bill S 5449 seeks to strengthen the legal framework surrounding assaults on first responders by increasing penalties for such offenses. By doing so, it aims to deter violence against these essential service members and enhance their safety while performing their critical roles in society. The bill is currently under review by the Codes Committee, and its progress will be monitored as it moves through the legislative process.

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

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