Connecticut House Bill HB05063

Connecticut 2018 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/13/18
• Refer: 2/13/18

Caption

An Act Restricting Operation Of The Personal Screening System At The Legislative Office Building And The State Capitol.

Impact

If enacted, HB 5063 would significantly modify the existing security protocol at these key state government buildings. By restricting the operation of the personal screening system to narrowly defined situations, the bill seeks to balance security needs with the operational and privacy concerns of individuals accessing the building. Critics may argue that such restrictions could leave the Legislative Office Building and the Capitol vulnerable during critical times when a screening system could enhance safety.

Summary

House Bill 5063 aims to regulate the use of the personal screening system at the Legislative Office Building and the State Capitol. This bill prohibits the operation of the screening system unless specific criteria are met, either in response to an elevated threat alert issued by the National Terrorism Advisory System or through a two-thirds vote by key legislative leaders in consultation with the chief of police of the Office of State Capitol Police. These measures are proposed to ensure that the screening system is only activated under necessary and justifiable circumstances.

Contention

The bill has sparked debates regarding the sufficiency of security measures at public buildings versus the need for personal liberties and access. Some stakeholders may argue that the legislative process required for activating the screening system could delay responses to real threats, thereby jeopardizing safety. Others could maintain that by instituting these restrictions, efficiency in the legislative process is upheld by preventing unnecessary security measures that could disrupt access to important government functions.