LAKELAND, FL. (NBC) - Led by lawmakers, lawyers and state officials, a public safety task force in Florida began its review of the controversial "Stand Your Ground" law Tuesday.
The parents of Trayvon Martin, the teenager whose death prompted this series of public hearings, spoke outside before the meeting convened.
"I believe my son was standing his grounds," said Sybrina Fulton, Trayvon's mother. "He was afraid. This guy was a stranger to him that was following him...I just want to speak to the task force to let them know that this is personal that they need to review these laws and they need to amend these laws."
Inside dozens addressed the panel some, suggesting the law remain as is with others suggesting it be repealed.
"There's no justice in this state," said one woman. "This law is disgusting and a license to kill."
Most, including Martin's parents, are asking for changes to what they call a loosely written, ambiguous measure.
"Where does it say in these laws that a neighborhood watch volunteer can chase down an unarmed teen, shoot him and claim self defense?" Tracy Martin, Trayvon's father, asked.
This was the first of six hearings scheduled across the state.
"I'm not going to make a predetermination, nor do I want my task force members to do that. I want us to listen to everything we receive with an open mind and to have an honest assessment as we move forward," Lt. Governor Jennifer Carroll said after the meeting.
Ultimately they will report to the Florida legislature, who will then have the task of deciding if "Stand Your Ground" will stand in the state.