From what I understand of it, if there's not a "release button" it's not a switchblade because it's not automatic. An automatic stores energy and instantly opens the knife after that energy is released. An assisted opener is just that, it uses leverage/gearing to make the opening easier and faster, but the user still has to apply force throughout the open. If your assisted opener is spring loaded or otherwise opens with an instant release, you may be treading on thin ice.
That's exactly what's happening here. The law is specific in saying that it can't be an automatic knife and defines one by indicating that it has a release button. With assisted openers, the effect is similar but there's no button...very grey. Local police don't seem to think so.
The best solution I've found so far is to just not put yourself in a situation where a LEO is going to ask to see in your pockets
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