CT HB07139

Removes the "wilfully or negligently" standard and replaces it with two separate penalty tiers for obstructing emergency vehicles (ambulances, fire department vehicles, or police vehicles)

Negligent obstruction of emergency vehicles remains a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of no more than $250

Willful obstruction of emergency vehicles becomes a class D felony with enhanced penalties

Applies to ambulances and emergency medical service vehicles responding to calls or transporting patients, fire department vehicles responding to fires or emergencies, and state or local police vehicles responding to emergencies or pursuing law violators

Effective date is October 1, 2017