House debates bill allowing people to "meet force with force" (Florida)

[Judi Lynn]

Published Thursday, March 31, 2005

House debates bill allowing people to "meet force with force"

By DAVID ROYSE
Associated Press Writer
TALLAHASSEE, Fla.
You're at a restaurant and someone walks up to you, pushes you and reaches into their pocket. For a split second you think, "That guy is going for a weapon."

Under a measure debated Thursday in the state House anyone in such a situation who reasonably fears their life is threatened might be justified in killing the would-be attacker.

"You are authorized to meet force with force," under the bill, said its chief proponent, Rep. Dennis Baxley, an Ocala Republican.

The bill (SB 436) has already passed the Senate and could come up for a final vote in the House next week. Then it would need the approval of Gov. Jeb Bush. It was the top legislative priority in Florida this year for the National Rifle Association. Bush hasn't said whether he'll sign the bill.
(snip/...)

http://www.theledger.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20050331/APN/503311106

[truthisfreedom]

1. oh , delightful. "i saw him reach in his pocket after i told him to stop

looking at my girlfriend. I HAD TO SHOOT HIM!"

[Theduckno2]

2. Your hypothetical situation could be alleviated,

by the Florida legislature by legalizing dueling! That way the two citizens could step outside and settle their differences. Just think how happy the NRA would be and it is as American as the old West. President Bush spoke yesterday of the "culture of life" and now this. Hypocrits all.

[Gin]

3. The spread of Mad Cowboy disease....from DC.

g

[Realityhack]

4. Wait...

is this just a way of making sure cops don't go down when they shoot someone going for an ID?

Seriously, if they guy actualy begins pulling out a weapon you can defend yourself under current law (as I understand it). Why do we have to make it easier to mis-inturpret actions... oh wait I remember, Christ told us to kill our enenies, it was in... wait what book was that? ;)

[nonconformist]

5. I thought so too

What is the purpose of this bill?

[geomon666]

6. Jesus, what is with this f***ing state!

Please someone rescue me!

[bluedog]

8. I really really hate this state......

its all too crazy....shouldn't they start doing something about our lost kids...........how about abuse cases where kids are sent back and found dead..........whats happening with the sex offender tougher laws.........whats with the state "losing" 1,800 sex offenders.where are they...........whats with jebbie trying to mess with the smaller class size admendment.......the high speed rail)(that he made sure) didn't stand a chance......hows the minimum wage debate going.....all of the above where voted by the voters......and he steps in and tries to weaken or repel each one...I say recall this SOB

[AlCzervik]

7. well hey when i lived in Texas Jr. signed abill into law

allowing me to pack some heat in my chosen place of worship so this doesn't surprise me.

[MisterP]

9. not to mention nursing homes and amusement parks