NC S889

Changes assault or affray against emergency responders (EMTs, paramedics, firefighters, law enforcement, hospital employees) from a Class I felony to a Class H felony if physical injury results.

Creates new felony offenses for unlawfully and intentionally exposing emergency responders to fentanyl or other harmful drugs/chemical agents (Class H felony), with enhanced penalties for exposure causing serious bodily injury (Class G felony), and makes it a Class I felony to knowingly fail to notify responders of such hazards at a location.

Appropriates $10,350,000 in nonrecurring funds for the 2025-2026 fiscal year to the Department of Public Safety for grants to state and local agencies to purchase bulletproof vests ($8,100,000) and bulletproof backpack plates ($2,250,000) for paramedics and EMTs.

Sets minimum wages effective July 1, 2024: paramedics at $30.00 per hour and EMTs at $26.00 per hour (or federal minimum wage, whichever is higher).

Requires all employers of paramedics and EMTs to provide free mental health counseling services accessible 24 hours per day, seven days per week, and establish a social support system for these employees.