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Sponsor proposes expanding Castle Doctrine to workplaces and retail; opponents warn of public-safety risks
Summary
Representative Benny Cook introduced House Bill 1374 to extend Castle Doctrine protections to workplaces and retail establishments; supporters emphasized worker safety, while opponents, including the Missouri NAACP, said expanding protections to nonemployees in retail spaces could increase violence and disproportionately affect people of color.
Representative Benny Cook presented House Bill 1374 to extend legal protections that currently allow use of deadly force in a dwelling or vehicle to employees and business owners at their place of employment. "This bill corrects that oversight by ensuring that individuals have the right to defend themselves and others in locations where they lawfully work or conduct business," Cook said.
During questioning committee members noted concerns about crowded retail spaces and the risk of multiple armed civilians intervening during an incident.…
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