FL S0764

Amends s. 784.081 to add persons licensed, registered, certified, or regulated by chapter 490 or chapter 491 to the list of protected officials and employees against whom assault or battery offenses are reclassified to more severe felony charges.

Reclassifies assault or battery offenses against these protected healthcare/mental health professionals: aggravated battery from 2nd degree to 1st degree felony; aggravated assault from 3rd degree to 2nd degree felony; battery from 1st degree misdemeanor to 3rd degree felony; assault from 2nd degree to 1st degree misdemeanor.

Requires the perpetrator to know or have reason to know the victim's identity, position, or employment status for the offense reclassification to apply.

Reenacts related provisions in the Criminal Punishment Code (s. 921.0022) and zero tolerance school policy (s. 1006.13) to incorporate the amendment.

Takes effect July 1, 2011.