The planned installation and implementation of metal detectors at the state Capitol has been delayed indefinitely due to electrical and installation requirements, according to the state Department of Accounting of General Services and Department of Public Safety.

What You Need To Know

  • The original deadline for the enhanced security measure to be in place was July 10 but was pushed back to August 7 for what was described as “supply chain, equipment calibration and additional requirement issues"

  • On Wednesday, the state announced the further delay and said a new date for implementation would be announced later

  • API Security, which was recently awarded the Unarmed Security Guard Services contract for the Capitol, will administer the new security enhancements, which will be established at both rotunda-level elevators and the chamber level

  • Thirty-seven other state capitols have already incorporated metal detectors into their security systems

The original deadline for the enhanced security measure to be in place was July 10 but was pushed back to August 7 for what was described as “supply chain, equipment calibration and additional requirement issues."

On Wednesday, the state announced the further delay and said a new date for implementation would be announced later.

API Security, which was recently awarded the Unarmed Security Guard Services contract for the Capitol, will administer the new security enhancements, which will be established at both rotunda-level elevators and the chamber level.

State sheriffs will continue to respond to calls for assistance as well as provide a law enforcement patrol presence in and around the Capitol complex.

“This added layer of security is a step forward that will make the state Capitol a safer place for all,” Department of Public Safety Director Tommy Johnson said when the metal detectors were first announced last month.

Comptroller Keith Regan said the Department of Accounting and General Services was working closely with law enforcement partners to ensure the safety of the general public, employees and elected officials.

“Installing and operating this new equipment will allow us to efficiently and effectively conduct screening at the Capitol with the goal of improving security,” Regan said.

Thirty-seven other state capitols have already incorporated metal detectors into their security systems.