Kansas 2023-2024 Regular Session

Kansas House Bill HB2808

Introduced
2/19/24  
Refer
2/19/24  
Report Pass
3/21/24  

Caption

Creating the crimes of causing harm to a public transportation employee and; aggravated causing harm to a public transportation employee and the crime of abuse of a sports official; providing penalties thereof.

Impact

The bill's implementation is expected to provide a legal framework that will hold individuals accountable for violence or abuse toward public transportation employees and sports officials. By introducing specific criminal charges for these actions, it reinforces the state's commitment to protecting those who serve the public and maintain order in sports. The enhanced penalties associated with these offenses could also empower local authorities to respond more effectively to incidents, ensuring that repercussions are not only outlined but actively enforced. This legislative change may influence state laws related to worker safety and public conduct in sports settings.

Summary

House Bill 2808 establishes criminal offenses specifically addressing harm caused to public transportation employees and sports officials. The bill aims to enhance protections for these individuals by categorizing such acts as crimes and instituting penalties for offenders. This legislative move underscores a growing concern regarding the safety and treatment of workers in public-facing jobs, as well as the integrity of sports officials in organized competitions. By formalizing these offenses, supporters of the bill argue that it will deter potential aggressors, thereby fostering a safer environment for both public transportation systems and sports events.

Contention

While the bill is largely supported for its intent to safeguard vulnerable workers, some concerns have been raised regarding its implications. Critics argue that the definitions of 'harm' and the thresholds for criminal charges could lead to overly aggressive policing of non-violent incidents, potentially straining community relations. Furthermore, there is a discussion around whether existing laws adequately protect these workers without the need for new criminal statutes. The introduction of HB2808 could also raise issues regarding resource allocation for enforcement and the judiciary's priorities in handling these specific cases.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

KS HB2139

Creating the crime of abuse of a sports official and providing criminal penalties therefor.

KS HB1839

To Create The Offense Of Aggravated Assault Against A Public Transit Employee.

KS A2016

Establishes crimes against elected public officials and immediate families; provides police protection in instances of crime against elected public official and immediate family.

KS S2681

Establishes crimes against elected public officials and immediate families; provides police protection in instances of crime against elected public official and immediate family.

KS HB2699

Creating the crimes of home invasion and aggravated home invasion and providing criminal penalties for violation thereof.

KS A5024

Establishes crimes against elected public official and immediate family; provides police protection in instances of crimes against elected public official and immediate family.

KS HB2350

Creating the crimes of human smuggling and aggravated human smuggling and providing penalties therefor.

KS S3170

Increases penalties for assault and harassment against sports officials and participants under certain circumstances.

KS S1358

Increases penalties for assault and harassment against sports officials and participants under certain circumstances.

KS A1544

Increases penalties for assault and harassment against sports officials and participants under certain circumstances.

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