Important Debate on 'Stand Your Ground' Law

On Tuesday, January 22 the House committee on Criminal Justice and Public Safety held a hearing on House Bill 135.  This bill would repeal parts of a law that Republicans pushed through the legislature two years ago — over Governor Lynch’s veto and law enforcement's objections — allowing people to use deadly force to defend themselves ANY PLACE that they have a right to be, without having a duty to retreat.  It would NOT change existing law that has been in place prior to 2011 that provides that a person does not have to retreat from an intruder AT HOME and may use deadly force if necessary.

Over 200 people attended the hearing with approximately 70 testifying; most in opposition to the bill. Deputy Attorney General Ann Rice, spoke in favor of the bill, noting that laws in effect prior to 2011 offered a “fair, balanced approach” to the self-defense issue and that the changes introduced in 2011 created “significant problems, especially in terms of public safety.”  Zandra Rice Hawkins, the executive director of Granite State Progress, also spoke in favor of the bill calling the previous changes to the law “ill-advised.” She called it “a kill at will bill” pushed by “an outside interest group” – American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC) – that “solves nothing and creates more headaches for law enforcement agencies.”  ALEC is conservative outside group that also pushed – and prepared language for – right to work bills introduced in the last legislation.

I will wait to see what the committee recommends, but at the present time, I am inclined to vote FOR the bill as written if it comes to the floor of the full house.  I have received many e-mails from people opposing the bill, but very few from those of you who may support it.   If you do support limiting the ability of people to use deadly force, please let me – and other legislators – know.  Legislator e-mail addresses are available online at: http://www.gencourt.state.nh.us/house/members/housemembersemail.aspx