Identical to S 311, filed 3/17/25.

Amends GS 14-33 to make it a Class 1 misdemeanor to assault a utility or communications worker while the worker is (1) readily identifiable as a worker (as defined) and (2) discharging or attempting to discharge his or her duties. Defines utility or communications worker as an employee of, agent of, or under contract with an organization, entity, or company, whether State created or privately, municipally, county, or cooperatively owned, that provides electricity, natural gas, telecommunications services, or internet access services. Makes other technical and clarifying changes.

Specifies that prosecutions for offenses committed before the effective date of this act are not abated or affected by this act, and the statutes that would be applicable but for this act remain applicable to those prosecutions.

Applicable to offenses committed on or after December 1, 2025.