5. a. Notwithstanding the term of imprisonment provided in N.J.S. 2C:43-6 or any fine imposed pursuant to N.J.S.2C:43-3, a defendant convicted of assault, pursuant to N.J.S.2C:12-1, against any health care professional, volunteer working for a health care professional or working at a health care facility, supportive services staff member working for a health care professional or working at a health care facility, or employee of a health care professional or health care facility, while the health care professional, volunteer, supportive services staff member, or employee is performing official duties, may be sentenced to community service.

b. The court may order the defendant to perform community service pursuant to this section in lieu of part of the defendant’s period of incarceration. The court may impose a term of community service of up to 30 days.

c. The Administrative Office of the Courts shall establish standards and procedures for the certification of community service organizations and providers to which a defendant may be sentenced pursuant to this section.

L.2023, c.48, s.5.