OKLAHOMA CITY, Oklahoma - April 12, 2010 - Frustrated by recent political setbacks, Tea Party leaders and some conservative members of the Oklahoma Legislature say they would like to create a new volunteer militia to help defend against what they believe are improper federal infringements on state sovereignty.

Tea party movement leaders say they've discussed the idea with several supportive lawmakers and hope to get legislation next year to recognize a new volunteer force. They say the unit would not resemble militia groups that have been raided for allegedly plotting attacks on law enforcement officers.

“Is it scary? It sure is. But when do the states stop rolling over for the federal government?” said Tea Party leader Al Gerhart of Oklahoma City, who heads an umbrella group of Tea Party factions called the Oklahoma Constitutional Alliance.

Thus far, the discussions have been exploratory. Even the proponents say they don't know how an armed force would be organized or how a state-based militia could block federal mandates. Critics also asserted that the force could inflame extremism, and that the National Guard already provides for the state's military needs.

But the militia talks reflect the frustration of some grassroots groups seeking new ways of fighting recent federal initiatives, such as the illegal, unconstitutional and unwanted health care bill, which purports to require all citizens to have health insurance. Over the last year, Tea Party groups across the country have staged rallies and pressured politicians to protest big government and demand reduced public spending.