Plans for a church in America to create its own police force, with the same powers as law enforcement officers, has moved a step closer.
NBC News says Alabama's Senate Judiciary Committee voted to send the SB 193 bill to the Senate for a full vote.
If enacted, the law would allow Briarwood Presbyterian Church to assemble, employ, and enable its own police force under the state's non-profit corporate law.
Church leaders are claiming it needs its own police to protect its 4,000 members and 2,000 students and teachers.
In a statement seen by the American broadcaster, church administrator Matt Moore said: "After the shooting at Sandy Hook and in the wake of similar assaults at churches and schools, Briarwood recognized the need to provide qualified first responders to coordinate with local law enforcement."
"The sole purpose of this proposed legislation is to provide a safe environment for the church, its members, students and guests."
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