TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) — The Florida House voted 93-24 to pass the “warning shot” bill, which would allow individuals to fire a warning shot instead of retreating from the threat of death or bodily harm.
For the second consecutive day, there was heavy debate as Rep. Perry Thurston attempted to change the bill to make major changes to ‘stand your ground.’ The amendment was defeated 83-31
The bill (HB 89) addresses “10-20-life” in self-defense cases. The 10-20-life law requires lengthy sentences for specific felony firearm convictions.
The legislation was partially inspired by the case of Marissa Alexander. The Jacksonville woman was sentenced to 20 years in prison after firing a shot at her estranged husband. An appeals court has ordered her to have a new trial.
The Senate tentatively passed its version of the bill Thursday.
