By Charley Williams
Floridians are rightly questioning the wisdom of the so-called Stand Your Ground law, which was adopted by the Legislature in 2005. This might be the right time to take a look at the comments which were made in committee hearings as well as on the House and Senate floor both supporting and opposing the legislative intent.
In hindsight, what promises were made? What assurances were guaranteed? What safeguards to justice and due process were addressed? What references were made to best management practices?
What other states were cited with long-standing track records on this subject? Did proponents anticipate a smooth implementation of the law, or were there concerns about interpretation? Was there adequate time for citizen input or was debate cut off?
How did our Central Florida legislative delegation vote on this legislation? Did any members serve as sponsors of the legislation?
I’d like to ask these elected servants if they still believe Florida citizens are well served by this nebulous act.
Charley Williams is former president of the LWVOC and is currently on the state board.
Recent Comments