HI HB1098

Adds a new provision to assault in the second degree (HRS §707-711) making it illegal to intentionally or knowingly cause bodily injury to a protective services worker engaged in performing their duties.

Defines "protective services worker" as any administrator, specialist, social worker, case manager, or aide employed by the Department of Human Services to investigate or provide services related to child abuse, neglect, or abuse or neglect of vulnerable adults.

Clarifies that protective services workers are considered public servants for purposes of terroristic threatening in the first degree (HRS §707-716), subjecting threats against them to enhanced penalties.

Makes assault on a protective services worker a class C felony offense.

Takes effect upon approval.