Senator Earll switches sides on Castle Doctrine

**1quikmf** · March 9th, 2011, 06:06 PM

I recieved an email from Senator Earll just moments ago explaining that she could now support HB40 (SB273) due to revised language in the bill.

Please refer to this thread regarding her previous refusal to do so back in November:

http://forum.pafoa.org/pennsylvania-...-nay-vote.html

Here's the new email:

To: Constituents interested in the Castle Doctrine Legislation

From: State Senator Jane M. Earll

Re: Senate Bill 273, Printer’s Number 769

Date: March 9, 2011

Yesterday, the Senate passed the amended version of the Castle Doctrine legislation that has been under consideration for several years. After much discussion with both the law enforcement community and the District Attorneys Association, amendments were added to ensure that persons who possess a firearm illegally and/or who are in the process of being apprehended may not invoke the doctrine as a defense.

As you may know, my concerns had to do largely with the improper use of any new language to make prosecution of criminals more difficult in our already strained judicial system. With the amendments, I could support SB 273, as a reinforcement of Pennsylvania’s existing self-defense provisions.

The vote was 43-4, with two not voting. The current language, as well as the vote information, is available online in the “Electronic Bill Room” at www.senatorearll.com.

Thanks to all who met with her and discussed the topic at Bob's Gun Shop late last year. I'd call this a win.

**mpi** · March 9th, 2011, 07:08 PM

what, specifically changed her mind?

**kadar** · March 9th, 2011, 07:24 PM

Originally Posted by mpi

what, specifically changed her mind?

Being on the losing side ?

**DonM55** · March 9th, 2011, 07:32 PM

Originally Posted by kadar

Being on the losing side ?

Or finaly realizing the voters she'll need to get relected overwhelmingly support this bill.

**blitzo** · March 9th, 2011, 07:37 PM

Originally Posted by 1quikmf

Thanks to all who met with her and discussed the topic at Bob's Gun Shop late last year. I'd call this a win.

I would also like to thank everyone who attended the meeting.

**anonymouse** · March 10th, 2011, 11:56 AM

amendments were added to ensure that persons who possess a firearm illegally and/or who are in the process of being apprehended may not invoke the doctrine as a defense.

As you may know, my concerns had to do largely with the improper use of any new language to make prosecution of criminals more difficult in our already strained judicial system. With the amendments, I could support SB 273, as a reinforcement of Pennsylvania’s existing self-defense provisions.

Which amendments were these?

**FNG19** · March 10th, 2011, 12:07 PM

There was an amendment added to HB40 in committee and SB273 on the floor to address concerns that the PA District Attorney's association raised. The text of the amendment will give you the details. It's pretty short, actually. As I understand it, the same amendment was made to both bills.