FL H0511

Defines "utility worker" as a person bearing a visible utility company patch or emblem employed or contracted by an entity providing electricity, gas, water, telephone, or communications services.

Reclassifies assault and battery offenses committed against utility workers to higher felony degrees, matching protections previously given to law enforcement officers and firefighters.

Adds utility workers to sections governing arrest without warrant (s. 901.15), criminal justice fingerprinting for minors (s. 943.051, s. 985.11), and employee background screening requirements (s. 985.644).

Updates the Criminal Punishment Code offense severity ranking chart (s. 921.0022) to reflect new utility worker assault and battery classifications as Level 4 and Level 6 felonies.

Effective date: October 1, 2013.