‘Stand Your Ground’ Repeal Rejected, Florida Panel Moves to Expand Scope of the Law

(The Daily Sheeple) Last week a panel of lawmakers rejected a measure to repeal Florida’s Stand Your Ground law. They did however approve new legislation that would expand on the current law.

The bill to repeal the current law what shot down in a vote of 11-2 by the House Criminal Justice Subcommittee. The approval of a separate bill would not subject Floridians to a minimum mandatory sentence, known as 10-20-Life, for firing a warning shot.

The attempt to repeal Stand Your Ground had “everything to do with making sure we keep our streets and our communities and our neighborhoods safe,” sponsor of the bill Rep. Alan Williams (D) said.

“We have had a number of cases that have shown us over and over that the law as adopted in 2005 isn’t working,” Williams said.

Many state legislators, some not on the panel, voiced their support the law, which they painted as a vital self-defense law, if not a right.

“Today, our state is a safer place and has the lowest crime rate in 42 years,” said Rep. Marti Coley (R).“Florida’s Stand Your Ground law is solid. It’s good and should not be changed.”

Rep. Matt Gaetz (R), who led the hearing, said he would not support changing “one damn comma” of the law.

…..

“Florida sheriffs unequivocally support the right to stand your ground,” said Okaloosa County Sheriff Larry Ashley, adding that people should not have to hesitate if an intruder is in their home.

House Minority Leader Perry Thurston told the Herald he will lead an effort to reform the law now that a repeal has failed.

(Source)