Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Senate Judiciary panel backs amendment adding "knowingly" for assaults on first responders
Summary
The Judiciary Committee voted to adopt an amendment to HP 59 that adds the word "knowingly" to an offense involving first responders, prompting debate over redundancy with existing statutes and whether the change properly targets intentional wrongdoing.
The Senate Judiciary Committee on an amendment to HP 59 voted to adopt language that makes it a more serious offense when someone "knowingly" causes bodily injury to a first responder.
Supporters argued the change recognizes the increased risk facing firefighters, emergency medical personnel and police officers. "First responders, which we're seeing statewide nationwide, are in harm's way more than ever and we think this bill will help recognize that," said the senator who presented the amendment. Senator Abbas seconded the motion.
Opponents said the…
Already have an account? Log in
Subscribe to keep reading
Unlock the rest of this article — and every article on Citizen Portal.
- Unlimited articles
- AI-powered breakdowns of topics, speakers, decisions, and budgets
- Instant alerts when your location has a new meeting
- Follow topics and more locations
- 1,000 AI Insights / month, plus AI Chat
