Bill > HB363

This bill modifies Missouri's self-defense laws to expand protections for individuals using force to defend themselves or others. The bill repeals existing sections and establishes new provisions that clarify when and how a person can use physical or deadly force. Specifically, a person may use physical force when they reasonably believe it is necessary to defend themselves or a third person from unlawful force, with some exceptions such as being the initial aggressor. The bill introduces a significant change by eliminating the duty to retreat in certain circumstances, including when a person is in their dwelling, vehicle, or on private property they own or lease. For deadly force, the bill allows its use when a person reasonably believes it is necessary to protect against death, serious injury, or a forcible felony, or when someone unlawfully enters a dwelling, residence, or vehicle. Importantly, the bill creates a presumption of reasonableness for the defendant's use of force and provides immunity from criminal prosecution and civil action for those using force under these circumstances, with specific exceptions for interactions with law enforcement. The bill also shifts the burden of proof in self-defense cases, requiring clear and convincing evidence to overcome a claimed self-defense immunity.

https://house.mo.gov/Bill.aspx?bill=HB363&year=2025&code=R