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Bill > SB572
GA SB572
GA SB572Criminal Prosecutions; an additional justification for use of force in defense of self or others; provide
summary
Introduced
02/24/2026
02/24/2026
In Committee
03/27/2026
03/27/2026
Crossed Over
03/06/2026
03/06/2026
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2025-2026 Regular Session
Bill Summary
AN ACT To amend Article 2 of Chapter 3 of Title 16 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to justification and excuse in defenses to criminal prosecutions, so as to provide for an additional justification for use of force in defense of self or others; to provide for a rebuttable presumption; to provide for timing for claims of immunity from prosecution based upon justification; to provide for standards of proof; to amend Code Section 51-11-9 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to no duty to retreat and immunity in certain instances of threat or use of force, so as to extend immunity from civil liability in justified use of force cases to legal representatives and heirs of the person against whom force was used; to provide for related matters; to provide for an effective date; to repeal conflicting laws; and for other purposes.
AI Summary
This bill expands the justifications for using force in self-defense or defense of others in Georgia, creating a rebuttable presumption that such force was reasonable and necessary, meaning it's assumed to be justified unless proven otherwise. It also adds a specific exception to this justification, preventing its use if the force was used against a law enforcement officer who properly identified themselves or was known to be an officer, and the incident occurred in a public place. Furthermore, the bill clarifies that a claim of immunity from prosecution for justified use of force can be made early in legal proceedings and requires clear and convincing evidence to overcome such a claim, and it extends immunity from civil liability to the legal representatives and heirs of a person against whom justified force was used.
Committee Categories
Justice
Sponsors (7)
Jason Anavitarte (R)*,
Bo Hatchett (R)*,
Steven McNeel (R)*,
Randy Robertson (R)*,
Brian Strickland (R)*,
Blake Tillery (R)*,
David Clark (R),
Last Action
House Committee Favorably Reported (on 03/27/2026)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
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bill summary
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bill summary
| Document Type | Source Location |
|---|---|
| State Bill Page | https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/73568 |
| BillText | https://www.legis.ga.gov/api/legislation/document/20252026/245283 |
| BillText | https://www.legis.ga.gov/api/legislation/document/20252026/243795 |
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