Bill description: SB 1023 would apply graduated penalties to anyone who commits assault or battery against an employee of the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation.

Rating: -1

Does it violate the principle of equal protection under the law? Examples include laws which discriminate or differentiate based on age, gender, or religion or which apply laws, regulations, rules, or penalties differently based on such characteristics. Conversely, does it restore or protect the principle of equal protection under the law?

SB 1023 would apply increased penalties to anyone who commits a misdemeanor or felony assault or battery against an Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation employee. Under current law, if an individual is charged with assault or battery against certain public employees—such as law enforcement officers, judges, and correctional officers—the individual faces extra time in jail or prison and increased fines.

If the charge is for committing battery with the intent to commit a serious felony, the maximum sentence is increased by five years. For any charge, such as a misdemeanor battery or assault, the penalty would be double the penalty if the crime was committed against a private citizen.

SB 1023 would elevate more public employees above private citizens and apply the law differently to these two groups.

(-1)