Amends GS 14-32.4, increasing the offense of assault inflicting serious bodily injury from a Class F to a Class E felony, and the offense of assault inflicting physical injury by strangulation from a Class H to a Class G felony. Adds a new offense, assault by strangulation, classified as a Class H felony. Makes organizational changes. Defines "strangulation" to mean impeding the normal breathing or circulation of blood of another person by applying pressure to the throat or neck of the person or by obstructing the nose and moth of the person.

Appropriates from the General Fund to the Department of Justice $3 million in recurring funds beginning in 2026-27 to establish a public awareness campaign regarding these increased punishments.

Applies to offenses committed on or after December 1, 2026.