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 This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)