Florida 2022 Regular Session

Florida House Bill H6115

Introduced
1/10/22  
Refer
1/16/22  
Refer
1/16/22  
Refer
1/16/22  

Caption

Use of Deadly Force in Defense of a Person

Impact

The amendments introduced by H6115 include updates to sections 776.012 and 776.032, clarifying that a person is justified in using or threatening to use force, including deadly force, when they reasonably believe such actions are necessary to prevent imminent harm. This modification emphasizes the lack of a duty to retreat before using deadly force when a person is in a place they have the right to be, effectively reinforcing the 'stand your ground' principle that has been a topic of significant discussion and debate in Florida legislative circles.

Summary

House Bill H6115 relates to the use of deadly force in defense of a person, proposing significant changes to existing laws governing self-defense in Florida. The bill repeals section 776.013 of the Florida Statutes, which currently allows a presumption of fear of death or great bodily harm under certain circumstances. By removing this provision, the bill aims to modify the legal landscape surrounding the use of deadly force, shifting the focus towards the immediate context of threat perception and actions taken by individuals in self-defense situations.

Contention

The proposed changes have sparked concerns among various stakeholders, particularly regarding potential implications for public safety and the legal protections extended to individuals who use deadly force. Critics argue that repealing the presumption of fear may lead to unnecessary escalation in confrontational situations and complicate legal determinations of what constitutes justifiable self-defense. Additionally, there are apprehensions about the potential increase in the number of violent encounters as a result of a broader interpretation of justified use of deadly force. Proponents, on the other hand, assert that the bill is necessary to uphold individuals' rights to defend themselves without fear of legal repercussions, thereby reinforcing personal safety in dangerous situations.

Companion Bills

FL H0073

Similar To Use or Threatened Use of Force

FL S0888

Similar To Use or Threatened Use of Force

Previously Filed As

FL H0787

Use or Threatened Use of Force

FL H0807

Drive-by Shootings

FL H1657

Criminal Offenses Against Law Enforcement Officers and Other Personnel

FL H0175

Criminal Offenses Against Law Enforcement Officers and Other Personnel

FL H0031

Carrying and Possession of Weapons and Firearms

FL H1371

Law Enforcement Officers and Other Personnel

FL H1619

Carrying and Possession of Weapons and Firearms

FL H0113

Fleeing or Attempting to Elude a Law Enforcement Officer

FL H1615

Criminal Offenses

FL H1545

Child Exploitation Offenses

Similar Bills

ME LD402

An Act to Move the Natural Areas Program from the Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry to the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife and to Amend the Law Governing Administration of the Bureau of Resource Management Within the Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife

CA AB237

Crimes: threats.

CA AB355

Crimes: extortion.

CA AB1872

Crimes: extortion.

HI SB3161

Relating To The Conservation Of Threatened Species.

HI HB2472

Relating To The Conservation Of Threatened Species.

NJ A4424

Concerns justified use of force and deadly force.

NJ S3099

Concerns justified use of force and deadly force.