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Bill

S 3493

Upgrades penalties for assaulting certain health care support staff and security guards at health care facilities and human services and veterans' facilities.

2026-2027 Regular Session Introduced by Jim Beach

New Jersey bill increases criminal penalties for assaulting health care support staff and security guards at medical, human services, and veterans' facilities.

Introduced in the Senate, Referred to Senate Law and Public Safety Committee
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Bill Summary · S 3493

Legislative bill overview

S 3493 increases criminal penalties for assaulting health care support staff and security guards working at health care facilities, human services facilities, and veterans' facilities in New Jersey. The bill elevates these assaults to more serious offense categories, imposing harsher punishments than standard assault charges.

Why is this important

Workplace violence against health care and support staff has increased significantly in recent years, creating safety concerns for essential workers. Enhanced penalties aim to deter attacks and provide stronger legal protections for vulnerable frontline workers who cannot always physically distance themselves from patients or visitors.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope definition: Determining which workers qualify as "support staff" versus general employees could create legal ambiguity and inconsistent application across facilities
  • Proportionality debate: Critics may argue enhanced penalties for assaults on specific worker categories raises questions about equal protection and whether other essential workers (transit staff, retail) deserve similar protections
  • Implementation costs: Increased incarceration from harsher penalties carries fiscal implications for the state's corrections system, potentially affecting criminal justice resources

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

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