Maine bill aims to ban militia training grounds that cause civil disorder
PORTLAND (WGME) -- A Maine lawmaker wants to ban a neo-Nazi paramilitary training camp in northern Maine.
Democratic State Senator Joe Baldacci says this isn't about ideology, it's about safety.
His new bill would ban any violent, para-military training camp in Maine.
Christopher Pohlhaus reportedly bought property in Springfield, which is about 70 miles northeast of Bangor.
Pohlhaus is the leader of a group called "Blood Tribe," which has protested outside drag shows.
Hate watch groups say he's a neo-Nazi and is creating a training ground on his property in Maine.
Baldacci says his bill would ban any militia training grounds that cause civil disorder, regardless of party or ideology.
"He has a right to believe whatever he wants to believe, but when it moves beyond that to possible incitement of violence, then we have a right as a society to stop that," Baldacci said.
The bill would go before the legislative council sometime after October 1, and if it advances there, as well as in committee, it will be up for a full vote next year.
The bill would also ban wearing masks for people who open carry in public places.
