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Committee expands aggravated-assault protection to include healthcare workers
Summary
Senate Bill 435 was presented by Senator Blake Johnson and the committee approved the measure by voice vote; the bill extends the aggravated-assault offense to include a defined list of healthcare workers (physicians, nurses, paramedics, pharmacists and others).
Senate Bill 435, presented in committee by Senator Blake Johnson on behalf of Senator Irvin, was approved by the Senate Judiciary Committee by voice vote.
Johnson said the measure adds health-care workers to the list of protected persons under the aggravated-assault statute. The bill's definition of "health care worker" on the record included physicians, nurses, paramedics, other emergency responders, technicians, pharmacists, dentists, healthcare aides and assistants, and therapists. Laurie Campuris of the Arkansas Product and Insurance Association identified herself to the committee and discussed overlap with existing statutes; committee members said the drafters had coordinated language with prosecutors and stakeholders.
Senator Tucker asked whether the penalty for the proposed offense was consistent with aggravated-assault sentencing; committee members agreed to verify precise sentencing classifications. After brief discussion and no public opposition, the committee moved and passed the bill by voice vote.
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