Criminal Justice (Firearms)

HB 1975 would amend Pennsylvania law to expand assault protections for emergency responders (including police, EMTs, and firefighters) beyond just law enforcement officers. The bill makes discharging a firearm at an emergency responder while they are on duty a first-degree felony (up to 40 years in prison), and intentionally exposing them to bodily fluids (blood, saliva, etc.) a third-degree felony, with a second-degree felony penalty if the fluids come from someone with a reportable disease. It directly affects all emergency responders performing their duties and would change sentencing for these specific assault offenses. The bill is pending in the Judiciary Committee as of its October 2025 introduction.