‘Warning Shot’ Bill Zips Though House

February 21, 2014

The House Judiciary Committee voted overwhelmingly Thursday to approve what has become known as the “warning shot” bill, readying it to go to the full House.

The bill, sponsored by Rep. Neil Combee, R-Polk City, would grant immunity to people who threaten to use force, including displaying weapons or firing warning shots, in self-defense. The Judiciary Committee voted 15-2 to approve the bill, which also would allow people to have records expunged if they were never charged or if charges were dismissed in situations where they showed weapons or fired warning shots.

The bill earlier was approved by the Criminal Justice Subcommittee and has not been assigned to any other committees.

Comments

7 Responses to “‘Warning Shot’ Bill Zips Though House”

  1. ME on February 25th, 2014 2:52 pm

    Those of you who are for open carry should look at both sides of the coin. On one side, yes it might be a deterrent if they know you are carrying. On the other side, the element of surprise is a plus when concealed carry is used. Crooks have never been accused of being smart, just because people carry openly doesn’t mean the crooks will stop only that now they know who to target first.

  2. sandra on February 24th, 2014 5:54 am

    “I have never needed a gun in (my) life”. Neither have I but then again, I have not had to use my fire extinguisher, seatbelts, auto insurance etc. Even though we may not use them its good to know they are there just in case.

  3. Sandy on February 22nd, 2014 5:01 pm

    The last few cases I’ve heard of only one person had a gun. I have never needed a gun in life. I guess that makes me a coward.

  4. E on February 22nd, 2014 4:52 am

    It matters not what started the creation, what matters is it’s enactment. I too agree with open carry.

  5. perdido fisherman on February 21st, 2014 4:48 pm

    marshall, the woman you are speaking of is either still in prison or having a new trial at this time. I think this is wonderful news and i agree with Don. I hope they push for an open carry law; these cowards will think twice when thier targets can return fire.

  6. marshall on February 21st, 2014 12:11 pm

    Except for the fact that the case that started this was not a “Warning Shot” issue. She had left the room and went to the garage, retrieved a weapon and returned. She fired at her husband with the child standing next to him. She should have spent jail time.

    I do agree with the warning shot provision, but not in the way this was started. If you are able to leave the area safely and then return on your own and fire…that, to me anyway, is not a warning shot.

  7. Don on February 21st, 2014 11:58 am

    That’s great news! hope they will push it even further to “open carry” that is a huge crime deterent.