Overview
- The Advisory Committee on Capitol Area Security voted 4–2 to recommend weapons screening and metal detectors at the State Capitol.
- Republican members Jim Nash and Warren Limmer opposed the screening recommendation, citing the absence of a cost estimate and uncertain ongoing expenses.
- Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan said the third-party assessment prioritized screening and urged policies to prohibit weapons in the Capitol complex.
- Changing access rules may require amending a state statute that currently allows permit-to-carry holders to bring firearms onto Capitol grounds.
- Most other security upgrades, including technology integration, staffing standards, added cameras, exterior lighting and tightened access points, won unanimous support and now move to the Legislature, with funding potentially included in Gov. Tim Walz’s forthcoming capital investment bill before the Feb. 17 session start.