IN HB1104

Defines "utility worker" to include employees or contractors of public utilities, municipal utilities, cable/satellite companies, telecommunications carriers, electric cooperatives, telephone cooperatives, and nonprofit utilities.

Elevates battery on a utility worker engaged in official duties that results in bodily injury from a Class B misdemeanor to a Class D felony.

Adds utility workers to the list of protected classes (alongside law enforcement officers, firefighters, school employees, health care providers, and others) who receive enhanced criminal penalties when assaulted.

Effective date is July 1, 2011.