Gov. Walz mandates weapons screening at Minnesota Capitol ahead of legislative session

Need for increased security at MN Capitol building

With threats at the Minnesota State Capitol Building, lawmakers are wanting to increase security. FOX 9's Corin Hoggard has the latest.

ST. PAUL, Minn. (FOX 9) - Gov. Tim Walz is taking executive action to enhance security at the Minnesota State Capitol by implementing weapons screening. 

Weapons screening implementation 

What we know:

The executive order was based on recommendations from the Advisory Committee on Capitol Area Security and a security assessment by the Axtell Group. The assessment suggested a consistent screening model to prevent dangerous items from entering public spaces. 

The State Capitol sees thousands of visitors annually, and hosts large gatherings. Weapons screening will help detect and prevent the introduction of unlawful items, maintaining safety during these high-activity periods, according to the order.

"Government cannot function effectively when elected officials fear for their safety. In the last year, Minnesota has seen horrific acts of political violence," said Gov. Walz. "This executive order will make the Capitol – the central seat of Minnesota’s state government – safer, ensuring the people’s house remains open, welcoming, and secure." 

Security measures and protocols 

Why you should care:

The implementation of weapons screening at the Capitol is a step to ensure the safety of elected officials and visitors, according to the order, and serves as a deterrent toward illegal weapons entering the Capitol.

The executive order requires the Department of Public Safety and the Minnesota State Patrol to have the necessary equipment and trained personnel in place by the start of the legislative session on Feb. 17, 2026, funded by the Minnesota State Patrol’s general fund. 

Minnesota Gun Owners Caucus responds

The other side:

Bryan Strawswer, Chair of the Minnesota Gun Owners' Caucus, issued the following statement to FOX 9.

"We're aware of the Governor's Executive Order on weapons screening. Consistent with MN State Law, MN Permit to Carry holders will still be able to carry at the Minnesota State Capitol Complex. We will work with state officials to ensure that the statutory right of MN Permit to Carry holders at the state capitol is not infringed. We're also aware of a notice from the Senate Majority Leader purporting to prohibit firearms in the State Senate Gallery. We are reviewing the notice and discussing next steps with legal counsel."

What we don't know:

Specific details about the screening procedures and equipment to be used have not been disclosed.