Government Committees to Review Stand Your Ground and Home Invasion Laws

May 9, 2025 – The Government of Trinidad and Tobago is taking steps to strengthen laws that protect citizens in their homes and communities. During its first Cabinet meeting on May 8, the government announced the formation of two special committees to review and propose new legislation on self-defence and home invasions. According to Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar, one committee will focus on the Stand Your Ground laws, which would give people greater legal protection if they use force to defend themselves or their property from criminals. The second committee will look specifically at home invasions. Their job is to help draft new laws that would increase penalties and improve legal responses to people who break into homes, especially while residents are inside. The move comes amid growing public concern about crime and personal safety. In a statement, the Office of the Prime Minister said these steps are part of the government’s effort to ensure that the legal system supports citizens’ right to protect themselves while holding criminals fully accountable. More details are expected once the committees complete their reviews and submit recommendations to Cabinet.