The New Hampshire Senate this week voted to expand a law giving citizens the right to use deadly force.

The Senate voted 17-7 to override Gov. John Lynch's veto of Senate Bill 88, which does away with a minimum mandatory sentence for a conviction related to the the possession, use, or attempted use of a firearm. Sen. Raymond White, who represents Merrimack, voted for the override.

Lynch and other officials, including Merrimack Police Chief Mark Doyle, have argued that provision could apply to dangerous criminals who would be able to get off such a crime easier.

Lynch released this statement following the vote:

“Law enforcement officials from across New Hampshire stood united in warning about the dangers of this bill and how it would compromise public safety by emboldening gangs and criminal activity. Yet lawmakers disregarded the warnings of law enforcement that this bill could compromise public safety."

“I am disappointed that lawmakers did not listen to the men and women who protect the citizens of New Hampshire every day.”

Senate Bill 88 now heads to the House, where it will likely be approved.

The text of the law can be found here.