CONCORD – Today House Republican Leader Gene Chandler (R-Bartlett) and House Republican Policy Leader Laurie Sanborn (R-Bedford) offered the following comments on the passage of HB135, a bill that would repeal the “Stand Your Ground” law in New Hampshire. The bill passed by a vote of 189-184.
House Republican Leader Gene Chandler (R-Bartlett)
“Retreat is not something responsible New Hampshire citizens should be forced to do when faced with a deadly threat. Our right to self defense and defense of other innocent victims should not be limited to the walls in which we reside. Claims that current law would result in increased violence are unfounded. Our citizens should not be asked to risk life and limb in retreat simply because there are a handful of thugs who might try and abuse this law. I’m deeply disappointed that the House would vote to restrict the rights of our people and give the benefit of doubt to violent attackers. It’s simply unconscionable.”
“How high does the cliff have to be to ensure a safe retreat? Two feet? Four feet? Six feet? Do we really expect this decision to be made while under the threat of violence?”
House Republican Policy Leader Laurie Sanborn (R-Bedford)
“Telling law abiding citizens they need to turn their backs on an attacker and run away instead of defending themselves or their loved ones is entirely the wrong message. The people of New Hampshire have a natural and basic human right to protect themselves wherever they happen to be, not just in the confines of their home. As a woman, I am dismayed that I will be forced to hesitate and take invaluable time away from protecting myself. Those seconds could mean the difference between life and death.”