Legislators discussed proposed bill changes to Nebraska Capitol security, firearms laws

The Nebraska Legislature heard discourse Monday over a proposed bill to change Capitol security measures, including adding limited entry points, additional security for those entering the building, and new restrictions for weapons.LB 1237, introduced by Sen. Ben Hansen, would prohibit explosives and other hazardous materials, as well as restrict some weapons, including firearms and knives, from entering the Capitol. It contains exceptions for Nebraskans with concealed carry permits.Hansen discussed the bill on the Legislature floor Monday.Previous coverage: Nebraska state senators hear testimony on proposed bill that would ban weapons at the State Capitol”A lot of the concerns that some, like myself, Second Amendment advocates have about making sure that we can ensure safety in the Capitol or at least enhance safety in the Capitol and make sure that we respect the rights of the Second Amendment gun owners in our state,” Hansen said.Currently, concealed carry is not permitted in the Capitol. There are no laws currently against open carry in the Capitol. Hansen said this bill addresses security concerns, including an uptick in political violence. Hansen said the bill is currently undergoing revisions.”Strike the Class 3 misdemeanor part and then also further define what a weapon actually is. We’re looking at striking the brass knuckles, pepper spray, tasers and stun guns and leaving it strictly to firearms and maybe further, even defining the knife part to a certain length,” Hansen said.Lawmakers look to strengthen Nebraska Capitol securityThe bill is drawing some criticism from senators, who say it’s important to outline how the security measures will be paid for and protections for Nebraskans who enter the Capitol.”This is not a country club. This is the people’s house, which is meant to put the people’s work first. We’ve heard people talk about how this has correlate to how we handle courthouse security, and I understand the concerns of those who are engaged in First Amendment activity,” Sen. Danielle Conrad said on the floor.The Nebraska Firearm Owners Association previously was opposed to the bill. Now, they say they’re neutral, citing the conceal carry and the reductions in weapons restrictions.”We have a loss and we have a win, but we want to further our wins. And so we’ll work next year during that legislative cycle to make further additions to this,” NFOA President Patricia Harrold said.She said they’re opposed to the increase in security.”The additional security measures are going to create a funnel effect. So we’re going to have limited entry points. We may only have one,” Harrold said.Make sure you can always see the latest news, weather, sports and more from KETV NewsWatch 7 on Google search.NAVIGATE: Home | Weather | Local News | National | Sports | Newscasts on demand |