KS SB478

Creates new criminal offense of "assault of a utility or communications employee" classified as a class B person misdemeanor, one level higher than simple assault (class C misdemeanor)

Creates new criminal offense of "battery against a utility or communications employee" classified as a class A person misdemeanor, one level higher than simple battery (class B misdemeanor)

Defines covered employees as those working for entities providing electricity, natural gas, water, wastewater, telecommunications services, or internet access services

Protection applies only when the employee is engaged in the performance of their job duties at the time of the assault or battery

Amends K.S.A. 21-5412 (assault statutes) and K.S.A. 2025 Supp. 21-5413 (battery statutes) to add these new offense categories