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Mar 8, 2010 6:50 pm US/Central
Security Concerns Over Capitol Being Too Open
ST. PAUL (WCCO) ―
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The Minnesota Capitol could be considered on of the most easily accessible public buildings in the state.
CBS
If you've visited a county office recently, or a courthouse, you've probably had to go through security, even a metal detector. But that kind of security is non-existent at the Minnesota State Capitol and some lawmakers believe the state's most visible landmark is a target.
Even so, the Minnesota Capitol could be considered on of the most easily accessible public buildings in the state. Lawmakers sit just a few feet below unrestricted galleries and the doors to the House, Senate and governor's office are wide open.
"I think sooner or later something is going to happen here," said Rep. Rick Hansen, DFL-South St. Paul.
Hansen is worried that Minnesota's tradition of openness is colliding with modern day realities of possible danger.
But he said the state's budget problems will prevent any serious look at security.
"Whether we have a tough budget or not, we should prepare to provide basic safety for the people of Minnesota when they are engaging with their government," Hansen said.
A security upgrade could cost millions of dollars.
Outside the Capitol building, the antiquated air exchange system makes it vulnerable to outside sabotage. In some public corridors, computer cables, heating pipes and electric lines hang openly from the ceiling. And unlike other public buildings, visitors don't get checked at the Capitol door.
Minnesota's Legislative Auditor James Nobles last year reported that Minnesota ranks near the bottom for security in state capitols.
"Not only do we rank low as a state capitol and capitol complex among other state capitols, but we rank low even among other public facilities in the metro area," Nobles said.
But there's a strong sense among many lawmakers that all the openness is a good thing.
On the floor of the Minnesota Senate, Capitol security officers got a tongue-lashing locking Capitol doors during after-hours sessions.
"I said it is completely unacceptable that this building is being locked when we have legislative business going on," said Sen. Don Betzold, DFL-Fridley.
In the last few years, public safety officials say they've quietly added more security cameras and security officers. But the kind of security makeover lawmakers say is needed could take years and cost millions of dollars.
(© MMX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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