ATLANTA (Feb. 5, 2014) | A measure that would repeal Georgia’s Stand Your Ground law was delayed in committee on the day that would have been Trayvon Martin’s 19th birthday.
Sen. Vincent Fort (D-Atlanta) authored the legislation that would repeal Georgia’s current law, which allows use of force, including deadly force, if they feel threatened – even if they have a reasonable opportunity to otherwise retreat without harm.
“Today, the Judiciary Non-Civil Committee delayed action on SB 280 that would finally eliminate Georgia’s pernicious ‘Stand Your Ground’ law. It is a sad day for our citizens and anybody who visits our great state. The committee chairman promised me a full and fair hearing and that did not occur. With a packed hearing room, only one person was permitted to testify on behalf of the repeal,” Fort said.
Fort said it appears that partisan politics have prevailed over the safety of Georgia’s citizens. The committee did not apprise Fort or others what next steps would be for SB 280.
“Stand Your Ground repeal is one of the civil rights issues of our time,” said Fort. “I am greatly disappointed that commitments were made and not kept.”
For Immediate Release:
February 5, 2014
For Information Contact:
Jennifer Yarber, Director
Adam Sweat, Communications Specialist
adam.sweat@senate.ga.gov
404.656.0028