SC H3522

Creates a new criminal offense of strangulation, defined as restricting airflow or blood circulation by applying pressure to the throat/neck, blocking nose/mouth, or applying weight to torso/abdomen/shoulders, regardless of visible injury

Strangulation conviction carries 3-10 years imprisonment

Establishes aggravated strangulation (10-20 years imprisonment) when the offender is subject to a protection/restraining order, uses a deadly weapon or ligature, or has a prior strangulation conviction

Requires law enforcement to inform victims that strangulation may cause serious internal injuries and encourage them to seek medical attention

Provides affirmative defenses for necessary medical procedures, lawful law enforcement actions, and consent by the victim