Minnesota Capitol Announces New Security Standards

Overview of Security Changes

• Weapons screening is now in place due to ongoing security concerns, impacts to members and staff, and recommendations from the Axtell Report.
• Screening procedures are similar to those used at other government buildings and large public venues.
• These protocols are new and may be adjusted as the legislative session continues.
• All Capitol users, including visitors and lobbyists, are expected to comply with screening requirements.

Screening Process

• All visitors and non-exempt staff must pass through weapons screening at public entrances.
• Visitors walk through screening equipment upon entry.
• Bags, purses, briefcases, and larger items are screened separately.
• Phones, keys, and wallets typically do not need to be removed unless additional screening is required.
• Most individuals pass through screening within seconds, though additional screening may occur.
• Signage and trained security staff are available to assist visitors.
• Individuals who refuse screening will not be permitted to enter the Capitol.
• Prohibited items will not be stored by security.

Capitol Entrances and Screening Locations

• Weapons screening is conducted at the following public entrances:
  • Main south entrance beneath the Capitol steps (primary public entrance)
  • Tunnel from the Minnesota Senate Building
  • Tunnel from the State Office Building (Lot C)
  • Tunnel from the Minnesota Judicial Center
• All screening locations are ADA accessible.
• Security staff can assist individuals with disabilities, medical devices, strollers, or service animals.
• Some Capitol complex buildings may have additional security measures, and movement between buildings may require multiple screenings.

Planning Ahead

• Allow extra time when entering the Capitol, especially during peak periods.
• Carry fewer large items when possible.
• Follow instructions from security staff to support efficient screening.

Prohibited Items

• Weapons and dangerous items: firearms unless authorized, explosives, ammunition, knives, blunt-force objects, clubs, batons, and items deemed dangerous under Minnesota statute.
• Contraband: illegal substances and alcohol.
• Event or protest-related items: balloons, spray paint, spray chalk, sidewalk chalk, tape (including duct, gaffer’s, or masking tape), candles, and open flames.
• Prohibited items will not be held or stored by Capitol security.

Firearms and Permits to Carry

• Individuals with a valid permit to carry may bring a pistol into the Capitol under current law.
• Long guns are not permitted inside the building.
• Individuals carrying a pistol should inform security staff prior to screening.
• Firearms should remain secured and not be removed or displayed during screening.
• Security staff will verify a valid permit to carry and government-issued ID.
• Bringing a firearm into the Capitol without a valid permit may result in arrest.

Exemptions from Screening

• Individuals exempt from screening include:
  • Legislators
  • Law enforcement officers
  • Emergency responders
  • Supreme Court justices
  • Sergeants at Arms
  • Individuals escorted by state troopers
  • Certain authorized administrative or maintenance staff
• Staff accompanying exempt individuals are not exempt.

Keycard Access

• Keycard access is limited to members and authorized staff.
• Piggybacking is prohibited.
• Do not hold doors or allow unknown individuals to enter secured areas.

Committee Hearings and Public Access

• House committee hearings will generally be ticketed.
• Senate hearings will continue ticketing for high-demand meetings.
• House committee rooms typically seat approximately 60 members of the public after member and staff seating.
• Overflow rooms and live video monitors will be available as needed.
• Sergeants will prioritize access for testifiers when possible.

General Public Hours

• The Capitol generally closes to the public at 4:30 pm on weekdays.
• When floor sessions or committee meetings extend beyond posted hours, screening and designated entrances will remain open.

After-Hours Navigation and Assistance

• The primary building entrance will remain open during after-hours hearings and floor sessions.
• Movement between buildings may be more limited after hours.
• Capitol Security Dispatch is available at 651-296-6741.
• Additional maps, planning guidance, and FAQs are available on the Capitol Security Dashboard.

Additional details, maps, planning guidance, and FAQs are available on the Capitol Security Dashboard here.