States Move to Expand Self-Defense Laws
Note: TChris also posts about this here.
I'm gonna stand my ground, I won't back down....Tom Petty
The New York Times reports today that states are increasingly enacting "Stand My Ground" laws that allow an individual to shoot to kill in self-defense without first having to "retreat to the wall."
The first of the new laws took effect in Florida in October, and cases under it are now reaching prosecutors and juries there. The other laws, mostly in Southern and Midwestern states, were enacted this year, according to the National Rifle Association, which has enthusiastically promoted them.
15 states have now enacted such laws, and Florida's is serving as a model. I support these laws, but think they should go further and cover businesses not just residences and vehicles. The basics of the Florida law are:
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