Castle Doctrine in Pennsylvania

(Harrisburg, Pennsylvania) New law from state lawmakers.

Area lawmakers are applauding state Senate passage this week of legislation to expand the Castle Doctrine, protecting gun owners who act in self-defense from attackers from prosecution.

But opponents claim the bill merely expands the use of force in a society already rampant with gun violence.

The law, now awaiting the governor's signature, removes the duty to retreat clause when an individual is threatened by an attacker in his or her home or vehicle.

State Sen. E. Eugene Yaw, R-Loyalsock Township, a supporter of the bill, said law-abiding citizens should not fear prosecution because they took action to protect themselves from perpetrators.

The "duty to retreat" clause in the law must have been written by a sniveling pussy non-confrontational pollyanna. Sure, there are times when stepping back and holding fire is necessary as a tactical maneuver, but I suggest it should never be a primary legislative mandate.