SB 1313 Would Let People Shoot to Kill in Public Even if There Is a Clear and Safe Alternative
BOISE, Idaho – The Idaho chapter of Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America, part of Everytown for Gun Safety, today denounced the Senate State Affairs Committee’s passage of dangerous “Stand Your Ground” legislation.
Stand Your Ground legislation is unnecessary in Idaho – a state that already recognizes the right to use force, including deadly force, in self-defense whenever it is reasonable under the circumstances. Research finds that states with Stand Your Ground laws have a clear increase in homicides. Additionally, there is no evidence that Stand Your Ground laws deter crime.
SB 1313 would let people shoot to kill in public even if there is a clear and safe alternative. The bill omits essential safeguards in Idaho’s traditional self-defense doctrine that prevent the reckless use of force.
STATEMENT FROM KATE BRUSSE, A VOLUNTEER WITH THE IDAHO CHAPTER OF MOMS DEMAND ACTION FOR GUN SENSE IN AMERICA:
“Today’s vote in the Senate State Affairs Committee is disappointing. As a native Idahoan, I’ve long been proud of our state’s history of responsible gun ownership. Unfortunately, this bill is completely irresponsible and a step in the wrong direction. In fact, research shows that Stand Your Ground policies increase homicides. In the wake of the mass shooting in Parkland, Florida our legislators should be focusing on reducing gun violence. I urge the Senate to reject this reckless piece of legislation.”