Castle Doctrine Self-Defense Bill Pending in Maryland Legislature

The Maryland House of Delegates passed House Bill 332 by a unanimous vote of 139-0 on Friday, March 6. 

HB 332 would clarify that law-abiding citizens are justified in using force, including deadly force, against intruders in the home when there is reasonable belief that the intruder intends to commit a crime, such as first, second, or third degree burglary or a crime of violence under § 14-101 of the Criminal Law Article. 

Last week the Senate Judicial Proceedings Committee held a hearing on the Senate version, Senate Bill 420, but no vote was taken.

Please contact the members of the Senate Judicial Proceedings Committee TODAY and respectfully encourage them to bring SB 420 up for a vote.  Contact information can be found below.

State Senator Brian E. Frosh (D-16), Chair
(410) 841-3124, (301) 858-3124, 1-800-492-7122, ext. 3124 (toll free)
[email protected]

State Senator Lisa A. Gladden (D-41), Vice Chair
(410) 841-3697, (301) 858-3697, 1-800-492-7122, ext. 3697 (toll free)
[email protected]

State Senator James Brochin (D-42)
(410) 841-3648, (301) 858-3648, 1-800-492-7122, ext. 3648 (toll free)
[email protected]

State Senator Jennie M. Forehand (D-17)
(410) 841-3134, (301) 858-3134, 1-800-492-7122, ext. 3134 (toll free)
[email protected]

State Senator Jamie Raskin (D-20)
(410) 841-3634, (301) 858-3634, 1-800-492-7122, ext. 3634 (toll free)
[email protected]