RELATING TO ELDER CRIME VICTIMS.

HB 2085 removes a legal requirement that prosecutors must prove a perpetrator specifically intended to target an older adult during a felony assault. This change directly affects older adults (typically age 65+) who are victims of assault, making it easier to charge such assaults as felonies. The bill simplifies prosecution by eliminating the need to demonstrate the defendant's "state of mind" regarding the victim's age, meaning prosecutors can now pursue felony assault charges based solely on the victim's age without proving intent. This is a policy change to strengthen legal protections for elderly crime victims.