Local state representative calling for repeal to Ohio’s “Stand Your Ground” law
Toledo-area State Rep. Lisa Sobecki says no duty to retreat will result in an increase in deadly confrontations.
TOLEDO, Ohio — State Rep. Lisa Sobecki (D-Toledo) is calling on Statehouse leaders to repeal Ohio’s new “Stand Your Ground” law, which passed in December 2020. Democratic-sponsored legislation, House Bill 38, would repeal the new shoot first law that takes effect today.
“Ohioans want common-sense gun safety regulations like universal background checks, not this. The ‘no duty to retreat’ law does not make Ohio safer and disproportionately harms minorities and Ohioans of color,” said Rep. Sobecki. “Ohioans already have the right to defend themselves when their lives are threatened. ‘No duty to retreat’ discourages responsible gun ownership and is a step in the wrong direction. Ohio laws should be focused on reducing gun violence and the opportunities for violence. ‘No duty to retreat’ does the opposite.”
HB 38 would repeal the recently passed law that permits the use of deadly force by individuals who believe their lives are endangered anywhere in the state. The measure was added as a last-minute amendment to Senate Bill 175 in December 2020, and the governor signed the bill into law, after suggesting he would veto the legislation.
Ohio’s “no duty to retreat” and/or “Stand Your Ground” law takes effect today.
