The Senate Judiciary Committee heard testimony on the damage caused by domestic terrorist groups in the United States and Pennsylvania during a hearing on House Bill 213 (Godshall-R-Montgomery) this week.

The FBI said groups like the Animal Liberation Front and the Earth Liberation Front are the worst domestic terrorist groups. These groups have caused over $9 million in damage targeting research labs, restaurants, new homes, forestry service buildings and SUV dealerships.

Representatives of two Pennsylvania organizations—Peonyland and the PA Society for Biomedical Research— detailed how these groups damaged property and threatened facilities.

The Director of the American Civil Liberties Union testified the legislation goes too far and will discriminate against individuals based on their point of view.

The Gaia Defense League and Erie County Environmental Coalition said the bill would discourage grassroots lobbying efforts and law abiding protestors from expressing their opinions.

NewsClips: Fighting Eco-Terrorism

Bill Would Toughen Penalties for Eco-Terror

6/12/2005