The bill amends Section 11-8-8 of the General Laws in Chapter 11-8, which pertains to burglary and breaking and entering. It introduces a new legal provision titled "Injury or Death Defense," establishing a rebuttable defense in civil or criminal proceedings if a person dies or sustains a personal injury while committing robbery of the owner, lessor, or occupant of a motor vehicle. The bill specifies that the owner or occupant of the vehicle acted in self-defense and had a reasonable belief that the person engaged in the criminal offense was about to inflict great bodily harm or death upon them or any other individual.

Additionally, the bill expands the list of offenses to include those outlined in sections 11-8-2, 11-8-6, and 11-39-2, thereby reinforcing the legal protection for property owners and occupants. This act is designed to clarify the legal standing of individuals defending themselves against potential harm during criminal acts and will take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
2156: 11-8-8