SENATE BILL REPORT

                   SB 6523

                    As of January 25, 1996

Title:  An act relating to civil disorder involving acts of violence.

Brief Description:  Prescribing penalties for civil disorder involving acts of violence.

Sponsors:  Senator Smith.

Brief History:

Committee Activity:  Law & Justice:  1/30/96.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON LAW & JUSTICE

Staff:  Cynthia Runger (786-7717)

Background:  There are several state statutes that ban people from gathering together to engage in illegal activity.  The state's anti-militia law makes it a misdemeanor for any organized body, other than the recognized militia organizations of this state, to associate itself as a military company.  A person is guilty of criminal conspiracy if he or she agrees with another to commit a crime and any one of them takes a substantial step towards the commission of the crime.  The subversive activities statute makes it a class C felony for anyone to conspire with another to overthrow the government.  It has been asserted that current state laws do not adequately address paramilitary training.

Summary of Bill:  It is unlawful to instruct or train in military or combat exercises with the knowledge or intent that civil disorder will result.  Any person engaged in paramilitary training in violation of this section is guilty of a class C felony.  Certain exemptions are provided such as martial arts training and firearm sporting events.

Appropriation:  None.

Fiscal Note:  Not requested.

Effective Date:  Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.