(JUNEAU) - Alaskans have the right to defend themselves and others from violent crime. Sen. Gene Therriault (R- North Pole) is taking a major step to increasing that right with the introduction SB 200. The bill makes the use of force, or deadly force a legally available option when life, property and the welfare of others is threatened.

"Current state statute only gives someone the right to defend themselves with force on property they own or lease. SB 200 expands the law to include any place that a person has a right to be and it includes several situations where someone's life is threatened, especially children," said Sen. Therriault.

SB 200 expands the use of force so it applies to defending children being threatened with death, serious injury or sexual assault.

Preventing crimes like kidnapping, sexual assault and robbery in any degree will also be justifiable uses of force as a defense under the proposed law. The bill is modeled after Florida's "Castle Law."

SB 200 does not allow the use of force against a law enforcement officer engaged in official duties.

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