House DFL Stops Republicans’ Shoot First Legislation From Passing

St. Paul, MN –  Today, Thursday, March 6, the Minnesota House of Representatives voted down HF 13, Republicans’ Shoot First bill which would remove Minnesota’s long-standing duty to retreat to prevent the escalation of violence. If passed, this would lead to even more gun violence victims and more loss of life. The bill failed to reach the 68 votes needed to pass with all Democrats voting in opposition.

“As a result of the bold actions of Democrats at the Capitol, Minnesota is starting to see real progress when it comes to reducing gun deaths. If HF 13 became law it would undo what we’ve accomplished. I’m grateful that my colleagues recognized the danger in this legislation and came together to vote it down, ” said DFL Public Safety Lead Rep. Kelly Moller (DFL - Shoreview). “There is still more that we can do to improve public safety in Minnesota, a lot of which is bipartisan in nature. I look forward to working across the aisle on practical bills that can pass off the House Floor.”

Currently, 27 states have Shoot First laws, and every one of them has a higher rate of gun deaths than Minnesota, with the average rate of gun deaths being more than twice Minnesota’s. Shoot First laws are also associated with heavy racial bias. A study in Florida found that white shooters killing Black victims is deemed justifiable five times more frequently than when the situation is reversed. 

“Our country doesn't have a ‘safe retreat’ epidemic, it has a gun violence epidemic,” said Rep. Dave Pinto (DFL- St. Paul). “Gun violence continues to be the number one cause of death in America for children other than infants. Instead of bringing up bills that won't pass and would make us even less safe, Republicans should be working with Democrats to make life better and more affordable for Minnesotans.” 

On top of these troubling realities, this bill is unnecessary. Minnesota law allows individuals to use deadly force in self-defense from grievous bodily harm or death. This bill removes the obligation to retreat in all situations, even if the escalation of violence could be prevented.

Over the past two years, House DFLers took action to reduce gun violence by requiring criminal background checks and creating Extreme Risk Protection Orders. These policies are already making a difference. In fact, Minnesota has one of the lowest firearm mortality rates in the US, in large part to our sensible and safety centered gun violence prevention laws.

Video of the floor debate can be found on the House Information’s Youtube Channel.

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