Associated Press Published

Tightened Capitol Security Takes Effect Today

Capitol

West Virginia is starting to limit public entry points at its Capitol and make visitors walk through metal detectors to enter the building.

Starting Friday, one public entrance will be available on the building’s west wing. A second east wing entrance will also be available beginning Sunday.

Visitors will pass through metal detectors and an X-ray machine will scan their items. People with electronic access cards, including state employees and certain media, can still enter any door.

Weapons are already illegal at the Capitol Complex in most instances. Concealed carry permit holders can leave guns locked in cars, for example.

State officials previously loosened gun restrictions around the state, including eliminating gun bans at city centers hosting after-school activities.