BGS defends existing security program as judiciary warns HB 349 would shift courthouse authority

Montpelier — Buildings and General Services officials told the House Corrections & Institutions Committee on April 17 that the department already operates a comprehensive, people‑centered security program for state facilities and said they do not see value in House Bill 349, which would move security responsibility to a newly created Vermont State Building Security Board. Judiciary representatives told the committee the bill would strip the Vermont Supreme Court of authority over courthouse security and risk undermining current courthouse protections.

Emily Kasigi, deputy commissioner of buildings and general services, framed the department s one that focuses on people as well as facilities. "The mission is to develop, coordinate, implement, and evaluate safety and security programs and related training in cooperation with all state organizations in support of the state's efforts to ensure and maintain a safe and secure environment for all employees and visitors," Kasigi said. She urged the committee to understand BGS's existing structure before moving responsibility to a new board.

Bill McSallis, director of the BGS Office of Safety and Security, described the office's day‑to‑day functions and metrics. McSallis said the office runs uniformed visitor screening and access control, emergency procedure planning, threat mitigation, security systems and…