(Juneau) - The Alaska Senate passed legislation today expanding an individual's legal right to use deadly force.

The bill's sponsor is Sen. Gene Therriault (R - North Pole). "Current statutes defining how and when someone can use deadly force to protect their life or the lives of others from violent criminals were a little too narrow. This bill allows Alaskans to defend themselves in other specific places such as a rented residence or their workplace. It also justifies the use of force in cases of a carjacking or to protect a child from eminent harm," said Sen. Therriault.

SB 200 allows a carjacking victim who is still inside the vehicle to use deadly force. It also permits someone outside the car to protect a carjacking victim who is still inside the vehicle.

Children in danger of being kidnapped, sexually assaulted, injured or killed are also circumstances where deadly force can be used. Alaskans will be able to defend property owned or leased.

Under no circumstances can force be used against law enforcement officers, firefighters, paramedics, EMTs or those assisting them in their official duties.

SB 200 is patterned after Florida's "Castle Law." A groundbreaking statute that broadened self defense laws to more accurately reflect situations where someone's life can be threatened and to protect children.

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03-27-06 : Sen. Therriault says he worked with the Alaska Department of Law to craft a bill that allows Alaskans to defend themselves, their children and property in a manner that will not abused.

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