NC H560

Expands G.S. 14-34.6 to classify assault on hospital personnel and licensed healthcare providers as a Class I felony when causing physical injury.

Broadens protection from emergency department staff (physicians, physician assistants, nurses, and nurse practitioners) to all hospital personnel and licensed healthcare providers providing or attempting to provide health care services in a hospital.

Maintains enhanced penalties: Class H felony if serious bodily injury is inflicted or a deadly weapon (other than firearm) is used; Class F felony if a firearm is used.

Effective December 1, 2015, and applies to offenses committed on or after that date.