NH House Leaders Comment on Bill to Allow Self-Defense Becoming Law

CONCORD – House Speaker William O’Brien (R-Mont Vernon) and House Majority D.J. Bettencourt (R-Salem) today offered the following statement in response to the House overriding the Governor’s veto of Senate Bill 88, legislation to allow citizens to use deadly force to defend themselves.  As the Senate has already overridden the veto, the bill now becomes law.

House Speaker William O’Brien

“This new law allows New Hampshire citizens to ‘stand their ground’ when they are threatened.  This is an important step forward to ensure the safety of our residents and sends a clear message to the criminals of the state to think twice before targeting law-abiding citizens.  This is an important protection for the public and allows us to join the 31 other states that have a similar Castle Doctrine or ‘stand your ground’ law.”

House Majority Leader D.J. Bettencourt

“Taking away the right of armed self-defense from law abiding citizens does nothing to reduce crime. We were happy to stand with the citizens of New Hampshire today in overturning the governor’s veto and fighting back on his attack on the basic human right to protect ourselves and our families when in harm’s way. The governor needs to get in step with the people of New Hampshire.”