Assault Amendments

HB 140 adds an aggravating factor for assault or threat of violence offenses committed against referees during official duties. It defines "referee" as someone officiating sanctioned sporting events (not informal games) and requires courts to consider this factor when sentencing offenders. The bill does not create new penalties but directs judges to weigh this circumstance more heavily during sentencing. It becomes effective on May 7, 2025, and affects only cases involving assaults on referees in organized sports contexts.