Corbett signs bill on right to use deadly force (Pennsylvania - More backlash) [View All]

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Gov. Tom Corbett on Tuesday signed a bill to widen the right to use deadly force in self-defense.

The bill, enacted by the Senate last week, will expand the state's castle doctrine to allow the right to use a gun or other deadly force in self-defense in situations outside a person's home or business. Currently, the use of deadly force is not justifiable if the person can safely retreat, except when the threat is made inside his or her home or business.

The legislation, signed during a private ceremony in the Republican governor's office at the Capitol, also limits certain civil liability in some cases for people who act within the guidelines. It goes into effect in 60 days.

The National Rifle Association's executive director, Chris Cox, called it a way for "law-abiding citizens" to "protect themselves when criminals attack without fear of being second-guessed by an overzealous prosecutor."

http://www.timesleader.com/news/ap?articleID=7258947