“Andy’s Law” counterterrorism legislation sponsored by Representative Chris Whitmire has been signed into law in North Carolina–along with an amendment authorizing National Guard members in North Carolina to be armed so that they can shoot back against terrorists.

The law allows for seizure of the assets including money, used in the course of, intended for use in the course of, derived from, or realized through terrorism.  This would empower law enforcement to prevent terrorists from keeping their assets.

The bill also creates a civil cause of action against terrorists and those who support them by allowing victims to recover actual damages, treble damages and attorneys fees.  This would allow victims of terrorism to sue those who committed the terrorist act and, significantly, those who provide material support for the terrorist act.  Current state laws do not clearly establish such a cause of action.

The name Andy’s Law was derived from the soldier who was killed by a Jihadist terrorist in Little Rock, Arkansas on June 1st, 2009, Private Andy Long.

In addition to North Carolina, Andy’s Law has passed into law in Louisiana, Arkansas, Kansas and Tennessee.