Dayton Passes Resolution Opposing "Stand Your Ground" Bill

The city of Dayton has passed a resolution that opposes “stand your groundâ€? legislation being considered at the Ohio house. Dayton is the first city in the state to come out against the bill. Right now Ohio law says you have the right to defend yourself if you’re in your home. But if if you’re outside, you have to retreat. If House Bill 203 is passed, it would allow you to fight back anywhere. The city of Dayton passed a resolution Wednesday opposing the new legislation. Commissioner Nan Whaley says it won’t help the city’s initiative to reduce gun violence, and that citizens have raised concerns about the bill. “A lot of the state legislation has a really direct effect on our community both as a city organization and then our community at large. "We feel like we have a responsibility to communicate with the state legislature on our positions that would affect our community and the people living in the city of Dayton,â€? says Whaley. Advocates for the bill say it will make Ohioans safer by giving them the right to defend themselves. The city’s resolution will be sent to state lawmakers.