A bill proposed by State Representative Bruce Griffey (R-Paris) would strengthen the state’s “Stand Your Ground” law.

Griffey says the law, which holds homeowners harmless from criminal prosecution, still has a loophole that would allow would-be perpetrators shot by homeowners to sue. He went on to say the temptation to sue is often heightened because insurance policies often cover injuries that occur on covered properties.

Griffey’s proposed bill would not only give homeowners criminal immunity, but civil immunity. He stressed the need for “clear and convincing evidence [of wrongdoing on the part of a  homeowner], so they’re not brought through the litigation wringer.”

A similar bill introduced in 2017 never made it out of the legislature. Griffey is hopeful the outcome will be different this time around.