Denizens of the Capitol may have noticed a few differences with the opening of the 2019 General Assembly yesterday. Throughout the campus, there was added members of police forces. While this may be normal for the first day, what was most noticeable was the location of these officers. Kentucky State Police were stationed at the base of the steps leading to the third floor where House and Senate chambers are located. Additionally, facilities security officers were located at both ends of the tunnel leading between the Capitol and Annex.
The Herald-Leader reports this morning that this increase in police comes on the order of Governor Bevin. His executive order is full of the usual rhetoric of protecting the safety of both the public and state government staff. However, one has to imagine this change comes as a direct reaction to the unprecedented number of engaged citizens who flooded the Capitol last session in response to the pension bill, as well as news that circulated prior to the session that the Poor People’s Campaign would be in town en masse.
The increased police presence was coupled with new rules for the galleries in the House and Senate. Signage now indicates that, among other regulations for general decorum, members of the galleries are no longer allowed to use cameras, either video or still, including cell phone cameras. Given that many teachers circulated photos of members’ votes through social media last session, one has to wonder if legislative leaders are wary that could happen again.
For a political party that has based much of their campaigns on increased transparency within government, it appears that Governor Bevin and the legislature have decided to reduce that now that they are in control.
Inside The Connector 