Arkansas already has strong self-defense laws that allow people to protect themselves in dangerous situations. But instead of keeping people safe, so-called "Stand Your Ground" laws create a dangerous culture where people shoot first and ask questions later.
Senate Bill 24 would allow people to shoot and kill someone even when there’s a clear and safe way to walk away from the situation.
Send your Arkansas state senator and representative the message below telling them to reject "Stand Your Ground" by opposing SB 24 >>
Fill out the form to send the letter below to lawmakers >>
Dear Lawmaker,
As your constituent, I strongly urge you to oppose the dangerous "Stand Your Ground" bill SB 24.
So-called "Stand Your Ground" laws encourage the escalation of violence in avoidable situations and do not deter crime. Arkansas already has a self defense law—and there is no proof it isn’t working.
These laws are associated with increases in firearm homicides and injuries across different demographics and neighborhoods, while disproportionately impacting communities of color.
In Florida, Stand Your Ground was associated with a 32 percent increase in firearm homicide rates, and at least 150 people nationwide are killed each month as a result of this deadly policy.
In fact, not only is Stand Your Ground associated with clear increases in homicide, it is also too often used by those who already have violent backgrounds. After violent extremists stormed and damaged the United States Capitol Building in an act of violent insurrection, the need to reject radical policies which would likely embolden extremists and vigilantes has never been more evident.
SB 24 is a bad solution in search of a problem. Please reject this dangerous legislation and protect our public safety.