In Florida, the mother of Trayvon Martin and Democratic lawmakers are calling for the repeal of the state’s so-called “stand-your-ground” law. A bill to repeal the law comes nearly a year after neighborhood watch volunteer, George Zimmerman shot and killed the unarmed teen.
Martin’s mother, Sybrina Fulton, stood flanked by Democratic lawmakers who’ve filed legislation to throw out Florida’s first-in-the-nation law that says people can use deadly force if they feel threatened. Nearly a year ago Fulton’s son Trayvon Martin was fatally shot by neighborhood watch volunteer George Zimmerman, who was later charged with second degree murder but is claiming self-defense under the law. Fulton shared her anguish as a parent and pleaded for lawmakers to take a closer look at the controversial law.
“We need to get rid of this law, we need to do something seriously about this law, as a parent, I wouldn’t want you to stand in my shoes,” Fulton said.
The bill is expected to face opposition by the Republican controlled legislature and already, the law’s sponsor Dennis Baxley says he’s not seeing a lot of support for a repeal.