Castle-doctrine critics, some of whom called it the "shoot first, ask questions later" bill, fumed over a procedural vote that stifled any debate on the issue or the amendments.
"Even though a majority might have their way, a minority would have their say," said Rep. Phyllis Mundy (D., Luzerne). "They have not had a minute to express their point of view and tell people why they oppose it."
With the support of police chiefs, prosecutors, sheriffs, and nearly 200 mayors from across Pennsylvania, the sponsor of the loophole measure, Rep. Bryan Lentz (D., Delaware), said he was hopeful he would at least force a debate on the issue.
"It's pretty outrageous they would not even stand up and engage in argument. They have no defense as to why the Florida loophole should not be closed," said Lentz, accusing members of doing "the bidding of the NRA" over the interests of law enforcement. "There is no self-defense epidemic, there is a gun-violence epidemic."
Steve Miskin, spokesman for House Minority Leader Sam Smith (R., Jefferson) said Smith "did the bidding of the majority of the House, who overwhelmingly voted in support of this one issue."
The "one issue" was the castle doctrine, a bill removing the duty to retreat before using deadly force except under certain circumstances.
A top Senate staff member indicated that the bill was likely to get a vote next week. Gov. Rendell said Tuesday he would have to review the bill before making a decision on whether to sign it.
Castle-doctrine bill sponsor Rep. Scott Perry (R., York) said individuals should not have to second-guess whether to use force to defend themselves and later be subject to a civil suit filed by a criminal.
