CA AB2246

Establishes a new crime of aggravated battery for persons confined in state hospitals who commit battery by gassing (intentionally placing human excrement or bodily fluids on another person) upon peace officers or state hospital employees, punishable by 2, 3, or 4 years imprisonment in county jail or state prison.

Defines "gassing" as intentionally placing or throwing human excrement, bodily fluids, or bodily substances that results in actual contact with a person's skin or membranes.

Requires state hospital directors to immediately investigate all reported or suspected gassing violations using forensic methods and may order involuntary medical testing for hepatitis or tuberculosis of affected officers or employees when medically necessary.

Mandates referral of all gassing incidents with probable cause to the local district attorney for prosecution.

Requires the State Department of Mental Health to submit a report to the Legislature by January 1, 2015, detailing gassing incidents, prosecutions, offender profiles, prevention efforts, and medical testing costs (reporting requirement repeals January 1, 2016).