AL HB237

Adds Section 13A-6-22.2 to Alabama Code to enhance criminal penalties for assault against certain protected individuals, known as the "Law Enforcement Protection Act of 2017" or "Justin David Sollohub Law."

Elevates first-degree assault to a Class A felony (from Class B) when the victim is a law enforcement officer, firefighter, paramedic, or emergency medical technician engaged in duties or when the offense is committed because of the victim's status.

Elevates second-degree assault to a Class B felony (from Class C) under the same victim and circumstance conditions.

Defines protected individuals to include officers with arrest power, sheriffs, constables, reserve officers without compensation, correctional officers, firefighters (including certified volunteers), paramedics, and emergency medical technicians licensed by the State Board of Health.

Becomes effective on the first day of the third month following passage and approval by the Governor, and is excluded from Amendment 621 local fund requirements because it defines a new crime.