NC H52

Creates new Class I felony for throwing, spraying, or projecting water or other substances at public safety officers, law enforcement animals, or search and rescue animals while on duty or because of their status

Expands definition of "public safety officer" to include law enforcement officers, probation/parole officers, detention facility employees, firefighters, EMS personnel, hospital employees, National Guard members, military personnel, juvenile court counselors, and emergency management workers

Increases penalty for assault with a firearm on a public safety officer from Class D to Class C felony

Extends criminal protections to cover assaults committed "because of the victim's status" as a public safety officer, not just assaults during performance of duties

Effective December 1, 2025, applying to offenses committed on or after that date