Texas HB 196 repeals Castle Doctrine

Texas State Representative Terry Meza (D-Irving) has introduced HB196, repealing the “Castle Doctrine.”

This bill seeks to prevent a homeowner from using a gun to protect himself and home against an armed intruder.

Meza’s answer to why she wants to repeal the Castle Doctrine… “I’m not saying that stealing is okay – all I’m saying is that it doesn’t warrant a death penalty. 

“Thieves only carry weapons for self-protection, and to provide the householder an incentive to cooperate. 

“They just want to get their loot and get away. When the resident tries to resist is when people get hurt. If only one side is armed fewer people will be killed.”

Meza tries to reassure us the homeowner can defend himself by fleeing his house and letting the burglar steal – er, shop for – whatever he wants in the house.

“… the homeowner’s obligation is to flee the home at the first sign of intrusion. If fleeing is not possible, he must cooperate with the intruder. But if violence breaks out, it is the homeowner’s responsibility to make sure no one gets hurt. The best way to achieve this is to use the minimum non-lethal force possible – because intruders will be able to sue for any injuries they receive at the hands of the homeowner.
Meza offers further evidence to justify her mentally deranged thinking:

“In most instances the thief needs the money more than the homeowner does… 

“The homeowner’s insurance reimburse his losses. On balance, the transfer of property is likely to lead to a more equitable distribution of wealth. If my bill can help make this transfer a peaceful one – so much the better.”