Crimes and punishments; creating the Utility Worker Protection Act of 2025; establishing assault or battery of a utility worker as a felony; effective date.

HB 2883, the Utility Worker Protection Act of 2025, makes assault or battery against utility workers a felony. It defines "utility workers" as those employed by or contracted with companies providing electricity, water, natural gas, or other utility services while performing job duties. The bill sets penalties for such offenses at up to two years in prison, a $1,000 fine, or both, and states this law works alongside existing legal protections. The bill takes effect on November 1, 2025.