Maine lawmakers are considering a bill that would remove the duty to retreat in self-defense situations, allowing individuals to stand their ground when facing a threat.

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DOVER-FOXCROFT, ME (1-minute read) — Maine legislators held a public hearing on Monday to discuss a bill that could significantly alter the state’s self-defense laws. Sponsored by Rep. Chad Perkins (R-Dover-Foxcroft), the proposed legislation, LD 486, seeks to eliminate the requirement that individuals retreat before using force to defend themselves.

Perkins argued that the duty to retreat places law-abiding citizens at a disadvantage by forcing them to hesitate in life-threatening situations. He cited historical legal precedents, including the 1877 Runyan v. State case, in which the Indiana Supreme Court affirmed that self-defense is a fundamental right under natural law. He also referenced two U.S. Supreme Court rulings—Brown v. United States and Beard v. United States—which he believes contradict Maine’s current law.

Maine is currently one of only 12 states that still impose a duty to retreat, alongside New York, Massachusetts, and Wisconsin. Perkins contended that this legal requirement forces victims into dangerous situations, potentially exposing them to greater harm.

The bill has received backing from nine Republican co-sponsors. Rather than adding new legal language, LD 486 would simply remove provisions that mandate retreat in self-defense situations.

Despite passionate arguments on both sides, no work session has been scheduled for further discussion of the bill.

Safety Tip: Understanding your state’s self-defense laws is crucial for responsible firearm ownership. Be aware of when and where you can legally use force and always prioritize de-escalation whenever possible.