Florida Senate Passes "Make My Day" Bill

The Florida Senate passed a bill 38-0 Wednesday that removes the legal expectation that a person should back down or run away in face of a serious threat. They can open fire without fear of criminal charges or civil liability.
The bill also enshrines the castle doctrine, or the right to defend a home against an intruder, in state law. It extends the castle doctrine to the automobile so drivers can shoot carjackers.
Proponents, including the National Rifle Association, said the bill is needed to balance a trend in the courts that has favored the criminal over the victim. Opponents worry about the unintended consequences.
Arthur Hayhoe of the Florida Coalition to Stop Gun Violence calls it the "Shoot first, ask questions later" bill.
"It's going to turn the street into a shooting gallery," he said.
The only debate about the bill was whether to continue to require a person to retreat if attacked in public. It is a principle that's taught in the classes required for carrying a concealed gun permit.