Assault or Battery on a Utility Worker

The definition of 'utility worker' was clarified to require identification of the employing utility and the person's role, and was expanded to include those engaged in work on critical infrastructure.

The protected class of utility workers was expanded to specifically include those engaged in work on critical infrastructure as defined in s. 812.141(1).

Several statutory references were updated to correct citations, including changes to sections 921.0022, 943.051, 985.11, and 985.644 to reflect current legal numbering and content.

The bill now explicitly references critical infrastructure work when determining the applicability of enhanced penalties for assault or battery against utility workers.

The bill includes a specific effective date of October 1, 2025, and was updated with current committee and sponsor information.

Added a new definition for 'utility worker' to include employees of entities that own, operate, lease, or control facilities for generating, transmitting, distributing, or furnishing electricity, natural or manufactured gas, water, wastewater, telephone, or communications services.

Modified assault and battery reclassification provisions to include utility workers alongside law enforcement officers, firefighters, and other specified personnel, increasing penalties for attacks against them.

Modified arrest warrant provisions and criminal punishment code rankings to include utility workers as protected persons, ensuring they receive the same legal protections as other specified personnel.

Modified juvenile fingerprinting requirements to include assault or battery on utility workers as an offense requiring mandatory fingerprinting of minors charged with the crime.

Modified background screening requirements for employees working with children to include a disqualifying offense for convictions of assault or battery against utility workers.