The Assembly Judiciary Committee is considering a bill that would automatically let someone off-the-hook for killing a home invader, if they feel their life is in danger.
“When an individual is faced with a potential life threatening situation in their home or dwelling they shouldn’t have to weigh civil liability concerns with defending themselves or loved ones,” Senate sponsor Van Wanggaard (R-Racine) testified.
The State Bar of Wisconsin’s Criminal Law Section unanimously opposes to the bill. Their representative Greg O’Meara testified that granting this automatic immunity opens the door for someone who wants to kill within the home in a pre-meditated fashion. The former prosecutor says such “bad actors” capable of murder wouldn’t hesitate to commit perjury in hiding behind the proposed self-defense law.
Others testified in support, saying currently those acting in self-defense may not be able to afford proper legal fees to counter a lawsuit or criminal prosecution.