FL S0344

Defines "utility worker" as a person employed by or under contract with a utility entity who wears visible identification clearly identifying them and their employer, working with electricity, gas, water, telephone, or communications service.

Reclassifies assault or battery committed against a utility worker during lawful performance of duties in the same manner as offenses against law enforcement officers, firefighters, and emergency medical providers.

Increases assault on a utility worker from a misdemeanor of the second degree to a misdemeanor of the first degree.

Increases battery on a utility worker from a misdemeanor of the first degree to a felony of the third degree.

Amends related statutes concerning arrest authority, fingerprinting requirements, criminal justice information collection, and the Criminal Punishment Code offense severity ranking chart to include utility workers.