Georgia is a state that needs some serious help...check this out:
Bill Would Let Georgians Shoot First if Threatened
By DOUG GROSS
Associated Press
ATLANTA (AP) -- Georgians would be allowed to shoot first if they feel threatened, under a bill passed Thursday in the state Senate. The bill, sponsored by Sen. Greg Goggans, R-Douglas, says people trying to defend themselves, other people or their property need not attempt to flee before using deadly force.
The state already has a similar law for people protecting their homes. But the Goggans bill, endorsed by the National Rifle Association, would allow Georgians to use deadly force as long as they are in a place legally. If a firearm is used, they must legally possess the weapon.
"This is about putting common sense into code," said Goggans. "Every law-abiding citizen in Georgia should have the right to choose whether to stand their ground or flee." The bill passed 40-13.
Critics said they fear the law could be used to justify shootings and other violence not associated with self-defense.
"If someone is on a driving range hitting golf balls and they feel like they are at risk, what is to prevent a verbal disagreement from turning into a slaying?" said Sen. Steve Thompson, D-Powder Springs.
Sen. Regina Thomas, D-Savannah, whose husband is a retired police officer, said she was concerned the bill could lead people to take the law into their own hands and even try to justify resisting arrest. "I'm afraid for our law enforcement officers if we're giving a recipe and authority for anyone to use force against force," she said.
Goggans said he began looking at Georgia's gun laws after Florida passed a similar bill last year. That state's "stand your ground" law led some gun control advocates to hand out leaflets at Florida airports, warning visitors to "take sensible precautions" while in the state.
Goggans defended the plan, saying prosecutors and judges decide when criminal charges are needed in shooting cases.
"I'm going to err on the side of the law-abiding citizen and make (the law) as strong as possible," he said.
The bill now goes to the House.
**hmmmm, lets shoot someone for a dirty look but ban sex???**
