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A bill that would allow security guards in each chamber of the Missouri General Assembly to have the full power of law enforcement as peace officers was heard on Tuesday.
House Bill 1997, sponsored by Rep. Bill Irwin, R-Lee’s Summit, outlines the potential creation of a security team for each chamber, granting current and future security guards the full powers of law enforcement, including the authority to make arrests. It would also allow the security guard to carry firearms when necessary.
The Missouri Capitol currently has a police force, the Missouri Capitol Police, which is responsible for securing the grounds and numerous state-owned buildings in Jefferson City. As outlined in the Missouri Constitution, Capitol Police are already authorized to make arrests.
Irwin’s bill would extend law enforcement’s powers to security guards, who currently monitor doors into each chamber. The bill would also require them to complete the Peace Officer Standards and Training program to be hired. The program is responsible for licensing peace officers and ensuring continued law enforcement education.
According to Irwin’s testimony at the committee hearing, the bill would also grant these security guards qualified immunity for certain actions taken during high-threat situations when officers need to remove someone from the House gallery physically.
Irwin told the House Intergovernmental Affairs Committee that qualified immunity is necessary for the House security team to do their job properly and “not fear for their future” if possible charges arise.
Irwin cited an incident last year in which a protester charged a security officer after being physically removed from the gallery.
“This bill mitigates risk, ensuring all who work or visit the Capitol are safe in this environment,” Irwin said.
Because the bill would put these requirements into state law, Irwin said it would also enable information sharing between state and federal law enforcement agencies and the security guards.
The bill is similar to HB 2107, sponsored by Rep. Richard West, R-Wentzville, which would also allow security guards in each chamber to carry firearms when needed and require them to be certified as peace officers. West’s bill was passed last week in the House Corrections and Public Institutions Committee.
