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Child testimony, pastors and security experts back measure removing duty to retreat in houses of worship
Summary
Youth testimony and public safety witnesses urged lawmakers to remove the duty to retreat for people defending others in places of worship; supporters described family‑centered services and argued parents will not flee when a child is in danger. Opponents raised concerns about law enforcement roles and training.
The Judiciary Committee also heard testimony on HB 7070, a bill that would eliminate the duty to retreat for a person defending themselves or others while in a house of religious worship.
Several witnesses framed the bill as a narrowly tailored change that reflects the family context of many houses of worship. Peter Estrada, a young witness from Newtown, told the committee he fears his mother would be criminalized if a law required…
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