California self-defense restrictions bill withdrawn by sponsor

A California lawmaker has withdrawn a bill that aimed to limit the use of lethal force in self-defense. Assemblymember Rich Chavez Zbur announced the decision on Wednesday, citing "misleading information" that caused confusion and fear among the public. The bill, known as Assembly Bill 1333, sought to clarify when lethal force would be unjustified and aimed to prevent excessive use of force. The proposal faced strong backlash from conservative critics. They argued it would criminalize self-defense and portray it as a move that favors criminals over victims. Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco, who is running for governor, publicly criticized the bill and claimed it would hinder residents' ability to defend themselves against criminals. The National Rifle Association (NRA) also opposed the bill, stating it would have removed California's "no duty to retreat" rule. This could make it easier to prosecute crime victims who defend themselves without first trying to escape. Critics argued that the bill would put victims in a vulnerable position and do little to deter crime. Republican Assembly Leader James Gallagher praised the public and institutional push against the bill as a reason for its withdrawal. Assemblyman Tom Lackey called it a "complete assault on self-defense" and expressed concern about the implications of second-guessing one's ability to protect their family from danger. Despite the bill's withdrawal, Zbur insisted that his intention was to enhance public safety. He stated that AB 1333 aimed to close a legal loophole that could allow aggressors to misuse self-defense laws.