NC S343

Creates new criminal offense for students aged 16 or older who assault school employees on school property while employees are performing duties or as a result of duty performance.

Excludes students with an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or Section 504 Plan from prosecution under this offense.

Establishes escalating penalties: first offense is Class A1 misdemeanor, second offense is Class H felony, third or subsequent offense is Class G felony.

Defines school property to include buildings, buses, campuses, grounds, recreational areas, athletic fields, and other property owned or operated by boards of education or school boards.

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