Threaten Elected Official/Increase Punishment
Plain English Summary
This bill increases criminal penalties for assaulting or threatening elected officials (including state executives, legislators, judges, and local elected officials) by moving offenses to more serious felony classifications. It also requires that pretrial release decisions for these offenses be made by a judge rather than a magistrate, with judges able to impose specific conditions like stay-away orders.
Arguments in Favor
Supporters argue this bill protects elected officials and public servants from violence and intimidation, which has increased in recent years. They contend that harsher penalties and judicial oversight of pretrial release will deter threats and assaults while ensuring dangerous defendants don't pose ongoing risks to officials and their families before trial.
Arguments Against
Opponents may argue the bill could restrict pretrial release rights and that significant felony enhancements might be disproportionate for some threat cases, particularly those involving speech rather than actual violence. They may also contend that the 48-hour custody provision could be used to delay due process and that the definition of 'local elected officer' casts a wide net.
AI-generated analysis based on bill text. Always verify with official sources at ncleg.gov. This is not legal or political advice.
Sponsors
Primary Sponsor
Representative · District 79
Primary Sponsor
Representative · District 43
Primary Sponsor
Representative · District 52
Primary Sponsor
Representative · District 96
Cosponsors (12)
Representative · District 89
Representative · District 5
Representative · District 15
Representative · District 53
Representative · District 27
Representative · District 99
Representative · District 81
Representative · District 28
Representative · District 17
Representative · District 109
Representative · District 13
Representative · District 84
Vote Breakdown (1 roll call)
Final Vote
On: Second Reading
Party Breakdown