Rep. Mark Keller (R-Perry/Franklin), a supporter of the Second Amendment, is pleased that legislation that would permit Pennsylvania citizens to defend themselves while in their homes or occupied vehicles was recently approved by the House Judiciary Committee.

“This legislation would reaffirm the rights guaranteed to law-abiding citizens by the U.S. and Pennsylvania constitutions,” Keller said.  “Many Pennsylvania residents have faced criminal prosecution defending their lives while facing great danger and this should not be happening.  This legislation would finally give our residents the right to protect themselves in their own homes.”

House Bill 40, cited as the Castle Doctrine, would create the presumption that if an attacker or intruder intends to inflict bodily harm, deadly force may be used to protect oneself, family and others while in their home or an occupied vehicle.  The presumption would not apply if the person entering a home was another resident of the home, a law enforcement officer, a parent, grandparent or other guardian removing a child from the home or vehicle.  In addition, this legislation would not apply if a person was using their home or vehicle to engage in criminal activity. 

“Law-abiding residents must have the ability to protect themselves and their families from being attacked or threatened inside their homes,” Keller said.

This bill is awaiting a final vote in the House.

Rep. Mark Keller

86th District

Pennsylvania House of Representatives

(717) 582-8119

Contact:  Tim Eller

House Republican Public Relations

teller@pahousegop.com

(717) 260-6242

Member Site:  RepKeller.com

Caucus site:  PAHouseGOP.com