Bill > SB1588

This bill establishes a "capitol hill protection zone" encompassing the state capitol grounds and surrounding state government buildings, including specific named structures and the immediate roads and sidewalks around them. The Commissioner of Safety is tasked with ensuring this zone is adequately staffed by law enforcement officers who will have concurrent authority with local agencies, meaning they can arrest, carry firearms, and investigate crimes within the zone. These officers must be certified by the Peace Officers Standards and Training Commission (POST) and receive additional specialized training on laws regarding protesting on state property and best practices for managing large public gatherings and protecting government officials. The Commissioner can also assign state facility protection officers to the zone, who must also complete this specialized training. This act is set to take effect on January 1, 2027.