RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 STAND YOUR GROUND LAWS, HOMICIDES, AND INJURIES
JF Journal of Human Resources
JO J Hum Resour
FD University of Wisconsin Press
SP 0613-5723R2
DO 10.3368/jhr.52.3.0613-5723R2
A1 Chandler McClellan
A1 Erdal Tekin
YR 2016
UL http://jhr.uwpress.org/content/early/2016/08/15/jhr.52.3.0613-5723R2.abstract
AB This paper examines the impact of Stand Your Ground laws on firearm homicides and injuries. Using state level monthly data and a difference-in-difference identification strategy, we find that these laws result in an increase in homicides. According to our estimates, at least 30 individuals are killed each month as a result of Stand Your Ground laws. Furthermore, we document evidence to suggest that these laws are also associated with an increase in hospitalizations related to firearm inflicted injuries. Taken together, the findings in this paper raise serious doubts against the argument that Stand Your Ground laws make public safer.