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SB 482

Relating to the offenses of assault, harassment, and interference with public duties committed against certain employees or agents of a utility.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Carol Alvarado and 4 co-sponsors

SB 482 enhances criminal penalties for assault, harassment, or interference with utility workers performing their duties, effective September 1, 2025.

Effective on 9/1/25
#crimes--againstpersons--general(i0170) #crimes--miscellaneous(i0200) #disasterpreparedness&relief(i0211) #harassment(s0058) #utilities--general(i0830)
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Bill Summary · SB 482

Legislative bill overview

SB 482 creates enhanced criminal penalties for assaulting, harassing, or interfering with utility employees and agents while they perform their duties. The bill expands legal protections for workers employed by or contracted with electric, gas, water, and other utility companies during work-related activities.

Why is this important

Utility workers frequently encounter hostile situations while accessing private property, disconnecting services, or responding to emergencies. This law provides stronger legal recourse and deterrence against violence or obstruction, potentially improving worker safety and uninterrupted service delivery to communities.

Potential points of contention

  • Definitional scope: The bill's coverage of "agents" and contractors may be broadly interpreted, potentially extending protections beyond core utility personnel to third-party vendors
  • Property rights conflict: Homeowners may dispute whether protecting utility access rights on private property appropriately balances their property ownership interests
  • Penalty severity: Enhanced criminal penalties could be viewed as disproportionate compared to similar offenses against other workers, raising equity concerns across professions

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

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