Nevada Considers Strengthening Protections Against Paramilitary Groups
Carson City, NV – Nevada lawmakers are deliberating on Assembly Bill 119, a legislative measure aimed at enhancing the state’s ability to address paramilitary activities. The bill, introduced by Assembly Speaker Steve Yeager and presented by Assemblymember Erica Roth, seeks to empower the state attorney general to investigate paramilitary operations and pursue injunctive relief against them. Additionally, it proposes the establishment of civil penalties for individuals harmed by such activities. (nevadacurrent.com)
The initiative responds to a concerning rise in extremist ideologies and anti-government sentiments across the nation. Roth highlighted the climate of fear and intimidation fostered by armed groups, emphasizing the bill’s focus on actions rather than beliefs. The proposed legislation targets activities such as public armed patrolling, interference with government operations, impersonation of law enforcement, and attempts to infringe upon the legal rights of others. (nevadacurrent.com)
Mary McCord, executive director of the Institute for Constitutional Advocacy and Protection, noted that while criminal penalties exist, they often come into play only after illegal activities have occurred. The bill aims to provide more proactive mechanisms for public safety. Nevada’s existing laws already prohibit paramilitary activities, but enforcement has been challenging. (nevadacurrent.com)
The bill has sparked discussions among lawmakers. Republicans on the judiciary committee questioned whether the legislation would impact groups like ranchers or church members who train together for property protection. McCord clarified that such activities would not fall under the new law unless they were intended to be paramilitary in nature. (nevadacurrent.com)
Nevada has a history of confrontations involving paramilitary groups. In 2014, rancher Cliven Bundy led an armed standoff with the Bureau of Land Management over cattle grazing disputes, supported by militia groups. More recently, unfounded conspiracy theories about election fraud have led to an increase in armed paramilitary activities in the state. (nevadacurrent.com)
As the legislative session progresses, Assembly Bill 119 continues to be a focal point in Nevada’s efforts to bolster protections against paramilitary groups and ensure public safety.
Nevada’s Legislative Efforts Against Paramilitary Groups:
- Nevada considers strengthening protections against paramilitary groups • Nevada Current
- Nevada lawmakers should allow for civil penalties and lawsuits against illegal private militias • Reno News & Review
- On The ‘Patriot Militias’ in Nevada (Opinion) | Carson City Nevada News – Carson Now
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