HB 5125
Relating to fines for local fire departments
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- Passed House of Delegates
- Passed Senate
- To Governor
- Became Law
Bill overview
This bill increases penalties for crimes against specific public safety personnel, including firefighters, law enforcement officers, and emergency medical service personnel. It creates a felony offense for attacking or obstructing a firefighter or emergency equipment, and it strengthens criminal penalties for assaults and battery against these individuals. The bill also clarifies definitions related to these professions and expands the scope of those protected.
Key provisions
- Creates a felony offense for attacking or hindering a firefighter or emergency equipment.
- Increases penalties for malicious assault against public safety personnel.
- Increases penalties for unlawful assault against public safety personnel.
- Increases penalties for battery against public safety personnel.
- Defines key terms related to public safety personnel, including ‘government representative,’ ‘health care worker,’ ‘utility worker,’ ‘emergency service personnel,’ ‘correctional employee,’ and ‘law-enforcement officer.’
- Specifies that a person convicted of a crime against a correctional employee may not be sentenced concurrently with the offense.
- Addresses traffic control during emergencies, establishing penalties for failing to comply with firefighter directions.
- Clarifies that law enforcement can maintain order at fire scenes.
Who is affected
- Firefighters
- Law Enforcement Officers
- Emergency Medical Service Personnel
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