“Stand Your Ground” Advances with Amendments
Written by Andrew-Rossi on March 2, 2018
The Wyoming House and Senate have approved separate so-called “stand your ground” proposals.
Each chamber will now consider the other’s version of the measure.
The proposals seek to expand the state’s “castle doctrine” law under which those who use deadly force in the home do not have to consider if it’s reasonable to retreat. Under current state law, that doctrine doesn’t apply outside the home. They also seek to provide the shooter protections from criminal and civil prosecution.
The immunity provisions were the subject of much debate and some changes in the Senate, according to Senator Hank Coe of Cody. He says that the senate amended a portion of the bill that would have prevented law enforcement from investigating incidents in which a shooter claimed to have shot in self-defense, but may have ulterior motives.
The state House also passed a bill that would let churches decide whether to allow people with conceal-carry permits to bring their weapons. Under current law, churches can allow people to open carry their weapons.
