Concerns are mounting over a new policy proposal that could potentially alter security protocols during hearings. One official voiced apprehension about allowing individuals, even those who have undergone training, to bring weapons into hearings. “I would be a little concerned about having folks, even though they’ve been through training, coming in with a weapon into those hearings,” she noted. She emphasized that this move might regress security measures, pondering, “I think if I were wanting to create mischief in those kinds of hearings, if I understood the assignment was, I had to have a concealed carry permit, couldn’t I get one?”
In response, another official, Hansen, acknowledged the risk but pointed out a current loophole. “If you wanted to do evil things, yes, you could do that. They could go out there and nefariously get the carry concealed license and carry in here to do harm. But right now they don’t need any of that stuff. They can just walk in here do that anyway,” he explained.
The discussion also touched on how the proposed changes could influence existing weapon restrictions in various Capitol areas. Conrad inquired, “You’re allowing access to the building for Nebraskans who have a concealed carry permit. But then what happens once they attain access, if they’re going to watch Supreme Court oral arguments, or if they’re going to attend a function in the governor’s hearing room, because those have different security features and prohibitions and restrictions in place?”
Providing clarity on the matter, Sen. John Fredrickson, who is part of the Executive Board that supported the proposal, stated that the Supreme Court would not face issues due to this policy.
