The state Senate passed legislation extending strong legal protection to homeowners who use deadly force against intruders, along with a few other bills, during the fall 2011 session’s final day Thursday.
The so-called “Castle Doctrine,” which provides immunities to homeowners who use lethal force against an intruder, passed on a largely bipartisan vote following some amendments.
“This is about protecting life, not property,” said Sen. Van Wanggaard, R-Racine.
Wanggaard, a bill co-sponsor, said homeowners should not be forced to worry about liability while defending their home and family.
Nonetheless, some Senate democrats said the proposal goes too far, catering to National Rifle Association interests rather than state safety groups’ concerns.
“This day in the Senate is truly bought and paid for by the NRA,” Sen. Jon Erpenbach, D-Middleton, said.
Ultimately, the Senate slightly altered the bill, making a small change that nonetheless returns the bill to the Assembly for final approval before the governor can sign it into law.
Also Thursday, the Senate cleared the way to move Wisconsin’s fall primary from the second week in September up to the second week in August.
The primary date change brings Wisconsin into compliance with federal requirements to provide 45 days for military and overseas voters to return absentee ballots.
Contrary to expectations, several bills, including potentially controversial mining legislation, did not make it to the floor before the 2011 session ended.
