VT H0255

Adds "public transit worker" to the list of protected professionals under Vermont's assault statute (13 V.S.A. § 1028), joining law enforcement officers, firefighters, health care workers, DCF employees, and emergency medical personnel

Defines "public transit worker" as a driver providing public transit (employee or volunteer) or an employee supporting riders at a transit center

Assault against a protected professional while performing lawful duties carries up to 1 year imprisonment for first offense and up to 10 years for second and subsequent offenses, in addition to standard assault penalties

Intentionally causing bodily fluids (blood, saliva, etc.) to contact a protected professional is punishable by up to 1 year imprisonment and/or $1,000 fine

Takes effect upon passage