ST. PAUL  (AP) - A bill that would allow citizens more freedom to use deadly force is now on a fast track to Gov. Mark Dayton.

The Senate passed the bill Thursday with bipartisan support in a 40-23 vote after heated debate.

The bill creates a presumption that anyone who uses deadly force while in a home or dwelling does so believing themselves in danger of harm or death. It expands the definition of dwelling to also mean a hotel room, tent, car or boat.

Some Democrats and law enforcement groups shared concerns that the bill makes it harder to charge a criminal with murder and said it puts police in greater danger when entering homes.

Dayton has not said if he will veto the bill, but was concerned with police opposition.

(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press.  All Rights Reserved)

More From AM 1240 WJON