Legislation that would permit Pennsylvania citizens to defend themselves while in their homes or occupied vehicles this week passed the state House of Representatives, according to Rep.

Brian Ellis, R-11th, who co-sponsored the measure."This legislation reaffirms the Second Amendment of the United States Constitution and Article 1, Section 21 of the Pennsylvania Constitution, both which guarantee the right of citizens to keep and bear arms in defense of themselves," Ellis said."State government must ensure that Pennsylvania citizens have the legal authority to defend their families from criminals who intend on inflicting physical harm or death."The four other lawmakers in the House whose districts include parts of Butler County joined Ellis in co-sponsoring and voting for the legislation. Those members are Reps.

Jaret Gibbons, D-10th;

Scott Hutchinson, R-64th;

Daryl Metcalfe, R-12th; and

Dick Stevenson, R-8th.The bill, known as the "Castle Doctrine," would create the presumption that an attacker or intruder intends to inflict bodily harm, and therefore, deadly force may be used to protect oneself, family and others while in their home or an occupied vehicle.That presumption also applies if a person is trying to unlawfully remove an occupant, against his or her will from a home or vehicle.The presumption would not apply if the person entering a home was another resident of the home, a law enforcement officer, a parent, grandparent or other guardian removing a child from the home or vehicle.In addition, the measure would not apply if a person was using their home or vehicle to engage in criminal activity.This bill now is in the Senate for consideration.