Warning Shot Bill Moving Ahead In Florida

TALLAHASSEE (CBSMiami/AP) — There's a push by some Florida legislators to make it clear that people can show a gun, or fire a warning shot, without getting a long prison sentence.

The bill, being pushed by some lawmakers, was partially inspired by the case of Marissa Alexander, who was given a 20 year prison sentence after firing a gun near her estranged husband during an argument. Alexander's conviction was thrown out by an appeals court and she is scheduled to have a new trial this year.

A Senate committee on Wednesday voted in favor of the bill (SB 488) while a similar version has already moved (HB 89) through a House committee.

The bill would grant the same protections already in place under Florida's controversial "stand your ground" law to people who only threaten to use force.

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