Mar 28, 2007 4:55 am US/Central
Texas Governor Extends Law Allowing Deadly Force
Residents May Now Defend Themselves In Cars, Homes And Workplaces
AUSTIN, Texas (CBS) ―
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Texas Gov. Rick Perry (File)
AP
Using deadly force to protect yourself in your home, car or workplace will be allowed in Texas come September.
Some refer to the measure as the "Castle Doctrine," drawing from the idea that a man's home is his castle and he should have the right to defend it.
The measure, backed by the National Rifle Association, requires that someone must be in a building or vehicle at the time of an attack and the person using deadly force cannot provoke the attacker or be involved in criminal activity at the time.
The law also provides civil immunity for people who use deadly force in those situations. It's a provision mean to stop criminals and their families from suing you if you fight back.
Governor Rick Perry, who signed the bill passed earlier this month by the Texas legislature, says the right to defend oneself is "intuitive to human nature."
Texas residents like the new, reports CBS station KEYE-TV in Austin.
"It lets you know you can defend yourself if that happens," said Andrew Burkes.
Burkes bought an AK-47 at a gun shop in Round Rock, Texas, where gun dealer Sam Paxman says people in fear for their lives shouldn't have to run away from the bad guys.
"I think it's a very good idea because some people can't get away," Paxman said.
Texas is the 16th state to adopt a Castle Law.
(© 2007 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)
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