HB 483 — Code Enforcement: Enhance Penalties for Assault and Battery on Code Enforcement Inspectors

The bill seeks to include "inspectors of code enforcement" as a category of "public safety officers." It defines inspectors of code enforcement as individuals employed by local governments who perform safety inspections of buildings, structures, and businesses. The bill strengthens penalties for assaults or batteries committed against utility workers or code enforcement inspectors while they are performing their official duties. Simple assault and battery offenses against these workers will result in a high and aggravated misdemeanor, while aggravated assault and battery can lead to prison sentences ranging from 3 to 20 years.