IL SB0278

Amends the Criminal Code of 2012 to add "emergency department staff" to the list of protected persons under aggravated assault and aggravated battery statutes, providing enhanced penalties for attacks against these workers

Defines "emergency department staff" broadly to include all clinical and nonclinical personnel in emergency rooms who may contact patients, such as physicians, nurses, technicians, security staff, patient transporters, respiratory therapists, housekeeping personnel, secretaries, and pharmacists

Defines "health care facility" as establishments licensed under various Illinois healthcare acts, including the Hospital Licensing Act, Nursing Home Care Act, Ambulatory Surgical Treatment Center Act, and Assisted Living and Shared Housing Act

Enhanced penalties apply when emergency department staff are assaulted or battered while performing official duties, to prevent performance of duties, or in retaliation for performing duties

Takes effect immediately upon becoming law