Recodification of battery statutes and providing a penalty.
Impact
The bill has significant implications for several existing statutes, particularly those regarding crimes against specific vulnerable populations. By renumbering and restructuring the laws, SB121 provides a clearer understanding of battery offenses, which may facilitate better enforcement and judicial interpretation. Supporters argue that this reorganization will enhance public safety and improve the legal response to acts of violence, especially in cases involving minors and the elderly. The amendments also reflect a modern approach to legal definitions that align with current societal concerns.
Summary
Senate Bill 121 aims to update and reorganize the existing battery statutes within the state legislature. This bill reclassifies and consolidates various forms of battery crimes under a newly created subchapter that emphasizes bodily security and battery. The revisions include specific provisions that clarify the definitions and penalties associated with different types of battery, particularly those involving vulnerable individuals such as the elderly and unborn children. Overall, the bill seeks to streamline the legal framework surrounding battery offenses while maintaining current penalties.
Contention
Although the bill is primarily focused on revising existing language for clarity and coherence, there may be points of contention surrounding the scope of its definitions. For instance, the expansion of terms such as 'family member' could raise debates about its implications in legal contexts. Additionally, merging various sections on threats to cause bodily harm may lead to concerns regarding the appropriate handling of such crimes within the context of public safety measures. Advocates for reform in systemic approaches might view these changes as part of a necessary progression towards more effective criminal justice policies.
Firearm transfers and possession, law enforcement and prosecution, victims and witnesses, obstruction of justice, mental health and substance use services, hate crimes reporting portal, fraud, making an appropriation, and providing a penalty. (FE)
Firearm transfers and possession, law enforcement and prosecution, victims and witnesses, obstruction of justice, mental health and substance use services, hate crimes reporting portal, fraud, making an appropriation, and providing a penalty. (FE)
Transmission facilities; installation of large wind energy, large solar energy, and battery energy storage systems; installation of light-mitigating technology systems; and prioritizing nuclear energy resources. (FE)
In safe schools, further providing for definitions, for reporting, for policy relating to bullying and for maintenance of records; and, in Safe2Say Program, further providing for intent, for definitions and for Safe2Say Program and providing for reporting and remediating bullying.