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Bill would raise penalties for assaults on utility workers after multiple threats and shootings, proponents say
Summary
Representative Gary Perry told the committee HB 452 would increase penalties for assaults on utility workers and classify them as first responders for the offense; utilities, unions and workers testified with detailed accounts of shootings, brandished weapons and threats, while cooperatives and broadband providers requested amendments to ensure coverage for cooperative employees.
Representative Gary Perry opened House Bill 452 by describing recent incidents in which utility crews were threatened or shot at while restoring service after storms or performing vegetation management. "This bill basically... is increasing the penalties significantly, and they should," Perry said, arguing the nature of utility work exposes employees to elevated risks and ripple effects to public safety when lines or gas services are disrupted.
A broad coalition of proponents — utility companies, safety managers, unions and journeymen linemen —…
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