FL S0660

Adds "utility worker" as a protected class under assault and battery statutes, defined as a person employed by or under contract with a utility entity who displays a visible patch or emblem identifying them as a utility worker.

Reclassifies assault on a utility worker from second-degree misdemeanor to first-degree misdemeanor, and battery on a utility worker from first-degree misdemeanor to third-degree felony.

Reclassifies aggravated assault on a utility worker from third-degree felony to second-degree felony, and aggravated battery on a utility worker from second-degree felony to first-degree felony.

Updates related statutes concerning arrest authority, criminal punishment code severity rankings, fingerprinting requirements for minors, and background screening standards to include utility workers alongside law enforcement officers, firefighters, and emergency medical providers.

Effective date: October 1, 2015.