Bad Guys not victims need to worry about retreating

TLHR May 16 Thurs Rep Mark Newman on HB 24 self defense bill

Alaskans have the right to protect themselves by whatever means if they feel self-defense in necessary. A bill which clarifies that it’s the bad guys that have to worry about retreating is waiting for final clearing before being sent to Governor Sean Parnell for his signature.

               Rep. Mark Newman, a Big Lake Republican, said in his sponsor statement for House Bill 24 that Alaska Statutes already recognize that a person has the right to use deadly force to protect their family, themselves and their property.

However, HB 24 now clarifies that right exists not only in the home but also any other place an person has the right to be. It firmly establishes the individuals’ right to stand their ground and not second guess the consequence of protecting their family or self, said Newman.

Rep. Mark Newman’s comments

               But, “House Bill 24 isn’t a blank check to pull the trigger,” Neuman said.

“The law is clear: a person is only legally allowed to use deadly force when that person reasonably believes the use of deadly force is necessary. Under our bill, if a person is in a public space they don’t have to retreat first and hope your attacker stays put because the legal ramifications are unclear.”

 He added that HB 24 strengthens the legal recognition of a basic human right to defend oneself, by sending a message to the Judiciary and Law Enforcement that it is the criminal who has the duty to retreat.

HB 24 passed the House March 20, and now heads to the Governor for signature. It takes effect 90 days from signature.