By Cat Keniston
Staff Writer
SAN BERNARDINO, Calif. — Assemblyman Rick Chavez Zbur has introduced Assembly Bill 1333, a controversial measure that would restrict when Californians can legally use deadly force in self-defense. The legislation seeks to eliminate certain circumstances under which homicide is currently deemed justifiable, particularly in defense of habitation or property. Additionally, the bill would require individuals to attempt retreat before resorting to lethal force in situations outside their homes.
The bill, which Zbur says is aimed at preventing vigilante violence, has drawn sharp criticism from legal experts, law enforcement officials, and self-defense advocates, who argue that it could leave innocent people more vulnerable to violent crime.
“This bill is absolutely dangerous,” said Los Angeles Deputy District Prosecutor Jonathan Hatami. “It tells law-abiding Californians that if someone breaks into your home or threatens your life, you must first try to run away. That’s not how real-life crime works, and it’s certainly not how the law should work.”
Critics argue that the legislation weakens fundamental self-defense protections and emboldens criminals by removing deterrents against violent crime. Former Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco did not mince words, calling the bill “outrageous.”
“This is a gift to criminals,” Bianco said. “If a violent intruder enters your home in the middle of the night, your first instinct should be to protect yourself and your family—not to figure out an escape route.”
The bill also restricts self-defense claims for individuals who initiate confrontations or engage in mutual combat unless they make a genuine effort to withdraw. Supporters, including gun safety advocacy groups, argue that it will reduce armed extremism and clarify the state’s self-defense laws.
However, many Second Amendment advocates see it differently. Chuck Michel, president of the California Rifle & Pistol Association, condemned the measure as an attack on the right to self-defense.
“This is an ideological attempt to rewrite centuries of self-defense law,” Michel said. “If this passes, criminals will know that their victims have fewer legal protections, and that’s going to put more people in danger.”
Amid mounting criticism, Zbur has promised to amend the bill to ensure that crime victims retain the right to protect themselves, their families, and their homes. Still, opposition remains fierce.
“Even with amendments, this bill is fundamentally flawed,” Hatami added. “The government should not be telling victims how much force they’re allowed to use when their lives are on the line.”
As AB 1333 moves through the legislative process, it faces a contentious battle between those advocating for increased gun control and those who believe the bill endangers the rights of law-abiding citizens.
