Missouri House advances bill to expand castle doctrine law

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) -- Missouri lawmakers are advancing a measure that would limit fees to carry a concealed firearm and expand the state's castle doctrine law.

House members voted 115-34 Monday to send the bill to the Senate.

Under the bill, concealed carry applicants could not be charged additional fees beyond $100 for fingerprinting or background checks.

The measure also expands the castle doctrine law, which gives people the right to use deadly force to defend themselves and their property against intruders. House guests who use deadly force also would be protected under the legislation.

Backers say that's needed to ensure those given permission to stay at someone's house, such as a baby sitter, are shielded from lawsuits if they use deadly force against an intruder.

Democratic opponents say the legislation encourages use of deadly force.