HI HB796

Establishes a new class C felony offense for assault against a utility worker engaged in lawful performance of duties.

Covers two types of assault: (1) intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causing serious or substantial bodily injury to a utility worker, or (2) intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly causing bodily injury with a dangerous instrument to a utility worker.

Defines "utility worker" as an employee of a government or private entity providing utility services including electricity, water, wastewater, gas, telephone, cable communications, or road maintenance services.

Addresses the safety concerns of utility workers who are frequently assaulted while performing job duties such as reading/repairing meters, responding to power outages, and processing disconnections/reconnections.

Effective date: July 1, 2050.