LINCOLN, Neb. — Nebraska lawmakers are weighing new security upgrades at the State Capitol ahead of the next legislative session in January.
State Senator Ben Hansen of Blair, chair of the Legislature’s Executive Board, announced the effort in a Wednesday press release, citing “recent acts of political violence in nearby states and across the country.” Although Hansen did not list any specific incidents, he noted that discussions about enhanced Capitol security have been ongoing for several years.
Currently, the Nebraska State Capitol is secured by State Patrol officers and an extensive camera system. Firearms are permitted inside the building but only through open carry. Hansen said lawmakers are studying how other states have improved Capitol safety while ensuring public accessibility, emphasizing the need to strike a balance between safety and transparency.
The Legislature is consulting with Capitol security officials, the Capitol Commission, and the executive and judicial branches — all housed in the building — to determine what new measures may be necessary. Some of the ideas under consideration include portable metal detectors at entrances or hearing rooms expected to see heavy public traffic during the session.
Hansen said any permanent changes would require a full legislative vote and likely wouldn’t be implemented until 2027, but temporary measures could appear as early as the upcoming 2026 session, which begins January 7th.
While no specific cost estimate has been released, Hansen said the proposed measures would not significantly affect the state budget. The main expenses would involve equipment maintenance, additional staff, and construction adjustments to maintain ADA compliance.
“We’re not talking tens of millions of dollars,” Hansen said. “It’s less than that.”
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