Kentucky panel expands third-degree assault protections to judges and public-transportation drivers

Representative Kim Holloway, sponsor of House Bill 446, told the committee the bill would expand third-degree assault protections in KRS 508.025 to judges and public transportation drivers.

"This bill seeks to amend KRS 508.025 to expand assault third degree charges to individuals who cause or attempt to cause physical injury to a justice or judge of the court of justice and to public transportation drivers," Representative Kim Holloway, House District 2, said.

The measure — carried by Holloway and advanced on a committee substitute — drew supportive remarks from members who asked the sponsor to consider further amendments to cover additional courthouse personnel. "I would ask you, if you would be okay with a floor amendment that would add circuit clerks," Representative Nimas said, explaining circuit clerks often work at the public doorway and encounter emotionally charged petitions. Holloway replied she would be supportive of such an amendment.

Committee members discussed whether the change should be more broadly worded. "Perhaps we should include all officers of the court," one member suggested during the roll-call discussion, noting the intent is to protect courthouse workers who are exposed to volatile situations.

After adoption of a committee substitute and a roll-call vote, Chair Elliott announced the outcome. "So with the 18 yes votes and no no votes, House Bill 446 as amended by the committee sub is favorably passed," Chair Elliott said.

What happened next: The committee substitute was adopted in committee and the bill was favorably reported out by voice and roll call; the committee did not specify floor-level amendments beyond the discussion encouraging inclusion of circuit clerks or officers of the court.

Votes at a glance: Committee roll call recorded 18 yes votes, 0 no votes; the committee reported the bill favorably.

Background: Holloway told the committee the bill responds to concerns from a judge in her district and from Louisville that judges and public transportation drivers lacked the same third-degree assault protections already afforded to other workers, such as social workers and teachers. The committee substitute added public transportation drivers at the request of local officials.

Next steps: The bill was favorably reported by the committee; any further changes (for example, adding circuit clerks or a broader "officers of the court" reference) would occur on the floor or through a floor amendment.