MS SB2013

Amends Mississippi Code Section 97-3-7 to reorganize the list of protected persons who trigger enhanced assault penalties by consolidating scattered provisions into a new subsection (9).

Simple assault convictions against protected persons result in fines up to $1,000 or imprisonment up to 5 years (previously up to $500 fine or 6 months jail).

Aggravated assault convictions against protected persons result in fines up to $5,000 or imprisonment up to 30 years (previously up to 20 years).

Protected persons include law enforcement officers, firefighters, emergency medical personnel, judges, prosecutors, teachers, school bus drivers, legislators, and persons 65 years or older or designated vulnerable adults, when acting within scope of duty.

Effective date is July 1, 2014.