AUSTIN – In the seven months since metal detectors were installed at the State Capitol, exactly zero illegal weapons have been intercepted by the Texas Department of Public Safety. Five weeks from Tuesday, however, those detectors get a big test with the Texas legislature gavels into session.
While a DPS spokeswoman would not comment on the changes, she says they are ready for the rush when the legislative session begins.
There was a time when an iron fence was enough to protect the Capitol. Now, metal detectors stand sentry at each of the four public entrances.
Visitors do not seem to mind.
"Nobody's that busy, I mean really,” said one visitor.
However, Capitol veterans know the place gets very busy when the legislature is in session.
State employees and legislators carrying special access badges can avoid the metal detectors and use special entrances, but all these new security measures at the Capitol bring with them some new security loopholes.
For example, when Capitol staffers were briefed about the new measures, they were told they would be able to bring at least one guest through certain entrances which otherwise require card access.
Since even a rush of holiday tourists can back up the line out the door, historical preservationists have worried that long lines of lobbyists in the late session summer heat, could expose priceless paintings to undue weathering.
