Baltimore City - Assault of Special Enforcement Officers - Penalties

HB 1501 increases penalties for intentionally causing physical injury to Baltimore City's special enforcement officers while they are performing official duties. The bill upgrades this offense from a misdemeanor to a felony, raising the maximum fine from $2,500 to $5,000 and maintaining a maximum 10-year prison sentence. It specifically targets assaults on officers authorized under Baltimore City Code §16-16A (special enforcement), §16-16B (parking enforcement), and §16-16C (traffic enforcement). The law directly affects individuals who assault these officers during work, making such actions a more serious criminal offense. The bill takes effect October 1, 2025.