Ban on military equipment for police?

This week President Obama issued an order prohibiting the use of federal funds to buy "military-type" equipment for law enforcement.

The ban includes everything from bayonets to tracked armored vehicles.

"We've seen how militarized gear can sometimes give people a feeling like they're an occupying force, as opposed to a force that's part of the community that's protecting them and serving them," said Obama.

Over the past few years, several New Hampshire communities have debated the acquisition of military-style equipment - particularly armored "BearCat" vehicles.

In New Hampshire, lawmakers have passed a bill to study the purchase of military vehicles and equipment by law enforcement.

The bill was originally written to ban the purchase outright.  However, some lawmakers oppose a ban because they believe cities and towns should be allowed to make their own decisions on equipment.

Other opponents argue that military-style equipment is appropriate for some situations, such as natural disasters and dangerous stand-offs.