On January 26, 2024, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz issued an executive order mandating weapons screening at the state Capitol, set to take effect before the upcoming legislative session on February 17. This decision follows recommendations from the Advisory Committee on Capitol Area Security (ACCAS), which were informed by an independent security assessment conducted by the Axtell Group.
The Axtell Group was engaged by the Department of Public Safety on July 29, 2023, in response to alarming incidents, including the tragic shootings of lawmakers on June 14 and recent break-ins and threats of violence at the Capitol. Initially, the proposal for weapons screening was expected to be deliberated and voted on by the Legislature during the upcoming session.
Concerns Over Safety and Legislative Action
In his announcement, Walz emphasized the importance of safety for elected officials, stating, “Government cannot function effectively when elected officials fear for their safety. In the last year, Minnesota has seen horrific acts of political violence.” He added that the executive order is intended to make the Capitol—a vital hub of Minnesota’s state government—safer and more secure.
Despite the executive order, some members of the ACCAS committee expressed reservations. Certain Republican members voted against the implementation of weapons screening, citing the need for more information regarding funding for the initiative. According to the Axtell Group, Minnesota is one of only six state Capitols that do not currently restrict firearms at the Capitol and one of ten that lack any form of weapons screening.
Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan echoed the governor’s sentiments, highlighting that incidents of gun violence and politically motivated attacks have heightened fear among the public. She referred to weapons screening as “common sense” and praised the committee’s efforts to protect the Capitol as “the home of our democracy.”
Implementation and Reactions
Senate President Bobby Joe Champion announced that, in alignment with the governor’s order, the Senate gallery will implement weapons screening and prohibit firearms. The executive order does not specify whether the House gallery will adhere to the same regulations. Zack Stephenson, House DFL Leader, expressed support for the executive action but indicated that House members would continue to advocate for a complete ban on guns within the Capitol.
In response to the development, Bryan Strawser, chair of the Minnesota Gun Owners Caucus, acknowledged the executive order and stated that they are assessing their next steps. He affirmed that current Minnesota state law allows permit holders to carry firearms within the Capitol Complex and expressed a commitment to ensuring that these statutory rights are not infringed. Strawser also mentioned that they are reviewing a notice from the Senate Majority Leader regarding the prohibition of firearms in the Senate gallery.
According to the governor’s office, the costs associated with implementing the weapons screening protocols will be covered by the general fund of the Minnesota State Patrol. As of the publication of this article, requests for comments from Republican lawmakers regarding the executive order had not been answered.
