Bill To Change "Stand Your Ground" Law Shot Down
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TALLAHASSEE (CBSMiami/AP) — A measure that would have changed the state's contentious "stand your ground" law may has been shot down by the House Criminal Justice subcommittee.
Ocala Republican Rep. Dennis Baxley wanted to require that prosecutors prove a defendant was not acting in self-defense when that person is asking for immunity. Baxley said the change was needed to respond to recent court rulings.
The National Rifle Association backed the bill but it was opposed by Florida's prosecuting attorneys.
Florida's "stand your ground" law allows the use of deadly force if someone believes their life is in jeopardy.
Rep. Carlos Trujillo, who chairs the House subcommittee, said he supports the current law and could not go along with the bill.
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