Metal Detectors and X-ray Machine Coming to State Capitol

Austin, TX - Visitors to the State Capitol could be greeted by metal detectors in the next 30-45 days. The State Board of Preservation voted Tuesday to accept the the Department of Public Safety's recommendations for upgrading security at the Capitol.

The Governor, who is a panel member on the board, was the lone person voting against the metal detectors.

Metal detectors will be placed at 4 entrances to the Capitol as well as an x-ray machine that will try to deter individuals from bring concealed weapons into the State Capitol unless they are permitted by DPS.

Those who work in the capitol, both elected officials and staff, will have to have a photo ID badge. A DPS officer will have to check each of those badges.

“This decision is with great reluctance but, as public officials our primary responsibility is to protect the physical safety of all 25 million people who live here,” Lieutenant Governor David Dewhurst said. “And I couldn't forgive myself if I'm not doing everything I can to protect Texans when they come to the capitol.”

This decision comes months after Fausto Cardenas, 24, was caught firing off several rounds from a gun on the south steps of the Capitol in January. A DPS trooper was able to apprehend Cardenas and arrested him. On Tuesday, the Texas State Board of Preservation also honored all the troopers who were involved in the apprehension of Cardenas.

Governor Perry, Lt. Governor Dewhurst, and Speaker Straus notified the Department of Public Safety back in March that they would approve security changes at the Capitol, but those changes only include the addition of more bike patrols, additional K-9 units, and the installation of a mass notification system.

Under the Texas Constitution concealed hand guns are allowed inside the Capitol.  Those with a concealed handgun license would not be prhoibited from bringing their weapons to the Capitol.