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Bill Expanding Gun Rights Goes To Minn. House

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) -- A proposal expanding the right to use deadly force in self-defense is headed for a vote in the Republican-controlled House.

The gun bill from GOP Rep. Tony Cornish won approval from a judiciary panel Wednesday after passing a public safety committee last week.

The legislation would grant the right to defend oneself using deadly force in an expanded definition of home, including a garage, car, deck, tent, boat, overnight accommodation or other dwelling. The person wouldn't have to retreat from a threatening situation first.

Current law allows the use of deadly force in self-defense when there is reasonable fear of great bodily harm or death or to prevent a felony in one's home.

Supporters want to give people more latitude to defend themselves. Opponents include law enforcement groups who say the change would endanger officers.

(© Copyright 2011 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

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