Knimrod
04-23-2006, 10:35 PM
State House bills could clarify self-defense rights
WOOD - TV
LANSING, Mich. Legislation awaiting action in the state House includes a four-bill package that supporters say could strengthen and clarify self-defense rights in the state.
The bills are backed by the National Rifle Association but opposed by antigun groups including the Million Mom March.
A key legal argument in the legislation is a presumption that someone who forcibly enters a home or a vehicle intends to harm the occupant. The legislation also would eliminate a requirement that people being attacked must retreat before responding.
The bills would allow people who feel threatened -- in their homes or in a public area under certain circumstances -- to defend themselves and use deadly force without facing criminal or civil prosecution.
The law would cover only people who are not committing crimes and are in a place they legally have a right to be.
Link to story (http://www.woodtv.com/Global/story.asp?S=4805642&nav=0Rce)
WOOD - TV
LANSING, Mich. Legislation awaiting action in the state House includes a four-bill package that supporters say could strengthen and clarify self-defense rights in the state.
The bills are backed by the National Rifle Association but opposed by antigun groups including the Million Mom March.
A key legal argument in the legislation is a presumption that someone who forcibly enters a home or a vehicle intends to harm the occupant. The legislation also would eliminate a requirement that people being attacked must retreat before responding.
The bills would allow people who feel threatened -- in their homes or in a public area under certain circumstances -- to defend themselves and use deadly force without facing criminal or civil prosecution.
The law would cover only people who are not committing crimes and are in a place they legally have a right to be.
Link to story (http://www.woodtv.com/Global/story.asp?S=4805642&nav=0Rce)