The use of deadly force and an easier process to apply for the use of pepper spray are two top priorities of the government as they relate to citizens’ personal safety that falls under the ambit of the Home Invasion (Self-Defence and Defence of Property) Bill 2025 and Firearms Act.
Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar said the proposed bill, which is already drafted by the government, will allow a law-abiding citizen who owns a legal firearm to use deadly force as a means to defend themselves and their property against bandits.
“This Bill seeks to establish the offence of home invasion and, in that context, to provide a person has no duty to retreat when operating in self-defence, in defence of his property, in defence of his family. This bill will provide that the person may use defensive force, including deadly force, to protect himself, his property, and his family members.”
Once national consultation takes place regarding the Home Invasion Bill, this will then allow for amendments to be made towards the Firearms Act, which seeks easier access to legal firearms.
“Too many times citizens have all the documentation to qualify and are refused a firearm because of the opinion or irrationality of some arbitrary police officer. We will remove that arbitrariness from the process and we’ll bring that legislation so that you can defend yourself as law-abiding citizens.”
Additionally, the PM said the government will collaborate with the Commissioner of Police to simplify the application process for pepper spray.
“Where possible, senior officers at your district police stations will be authorised to sign off on pepper spray applications. This will quicken the process, and allow the senior officer the flexibility to make real-time decisions regarding applications where there are imminent threats, particularly in domestic violence cases.”
The bill is expected to be presented to Cabinet on Thursday.