AR SB435

Creates a new Class D felony offense of "aggravated assault upon a healthcare worker" for purposely causing a healthcare worker to come into contact with saliva, blood, urine, feces, seminal fluid, or other bodily fluids by throwing, tossing, or otherwise transferring the material

Defines "healthcare worker" broadly to include physicians, nurses, paramedics, technicians, pharmacists, dentists, therapists, aides, case managers, and administrative, janitorial, security, and food services staff who support healthcare operations

Applies protections regardless of location, covering hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, outpatient facilities, home health agencies, crime scenes, accident scenes, and any other healthcare setting

Preserves existing juvenile transfer requirements (clear and convincing evidence standard) and mental fitness determination procedures for defendants

Approved April 17, 2025 as Act 753 of the Regular Session