Lifetime Citizen Portal Access — AI Briefings, Alerts & Unlimited Follows
Legislative committee adopts updated Capitol building use policy including designated food rooms
Loading...
Summary
The Joint Committee on Legislative Administration approved an updated Capital Building Use Policy reflecting new hearing rooms, renamed public spaces and a time-limited food-service exception for two hearing rooms; one member recorded an objection over a concealed-carry restriction.
The Joint Committee on Legislative Administration on June 13, 2025 adopted updates to the Capital Building Use Policy that rename some public spaces, add four new hearing rooms to the rental schedule and temporarily permit food service in two hearing rooms during the interim.
Bridal Haynes, legislative administrator, told the committee the updated policy reflects building reconfiguration as construction finishes: "We have 4 new hearing rooms. So 30, 40, 60 and 70 are included now in rooms available, for rent." He also said the policy updates rename some spaces (for example, replacing a "Capitol Steps" reference with "Capitol Plaza") and updates the fee schedule.
On food service, Representative Gomberg asked why food would be allowed in only two rooms. Haynes explained that limiting service to Hearing Rooms C and D during the interim lets custodial crews focus cleanup in a small number of spaces: "If we isolate 2, then we have, we can focus our custodial crews on cleaning up those spaces." He said staff can approve adjustments as needed.
Senator Bohm objected to language in the policy that restricts concealed handguns, stating he voted against the underlying policy and would object to the rule to be consistent with his position. The objection was noted for the record; the transcript shows no amendment to change that language.
Public testimony included a brief comment from David Dean, who told the committee he wanted increased services and supports statewide for people and families in need; the comments were not about the building-use specifics and the committee did not alter the policy based on that testimony.
Co-chair Wagner moved adoption of the changes recommended by Legislative Administration to the Capital Building Use Policy. The motion passed on roll call and the committee closed the work session.
The updated policy will govern room availability, fees and behavior rules as the Capitol reopens to staff and the public.
