Bill > HB1504

This bill establishes a "capitol hill protection zone" encompassing the state capitol grounds and surrounding state government buildings, including specific named structures and the roads and sidewalks immediately adjacent to them. Within this zone, law enforcement officers assigned by the Commissioner of Safety will have concurrent authority with local law enforcement, meaning they can make arrests, carry firearms, and investigate crimes. These officers must be certified by the Peace Officers Standards and Training Commission (POST) and receive additional specialized training on laws related to protesting on state property and managing large public gatherings to ensure the safety of government officials, employees, and the public. The Commissioner of Safety can also assign state facility protection officers, who must also undergo this specialized training, to the zone. This act will take effect on January 1, 2027.