POLL RESULTS: Majority Favors New Gun Law

Eighty percent of respondents to said they are in favor of a new law that would increase protections for those who use a weapon in self-defense.

Gov. John Lynch recently vetoed the law, the text of which can be found here. Lawmakers could override the veto next month.

Of 45 respondents to our poll, 36 (80 percent) were in favor of the law. Nine (20 percent) were against it. The poll started Tuesday.

The law would do away with a minimum mandatory sentence for a conviction related to the the possession, use, or attempted use of a firearm. Lynch and other officials said that provision could apply to dangerous criminals who would be able to get off such a crime easier.

Lynch, the state Attorney General's office, and state police chiefs argue the bill (Senate Bill 88) is wrong-headed. Some Republican lawmakers said it reinforces New Hampshire citizens' right to defend themselves.

The bill would also offer -- in some circumstances -- immunity from civil suits against those who use deadly force against perpetrator.