Cuts to Capitol Security Might be Reviewed

A Republican lawmaker decries cuts in the security at the state Capitol, cuts made by his fellow party leaders in the legislature. In the days after the September 11th, 2001 terrorist attacks, the state significantly stepped up security efforts at state buildings, especially at the Capitol in Jefferson City. Capitol Police Sergeant Stacy Skiles tells the Joint Committee on Terrorism, Bioterrorism and Homeland Security that state law enforcement officers manned the front doors at first, then private security was used. Committee Chairman, Representative Jack Jackson (R-Wildwood), says it was wrong for his Republican colleagues to cut Capitol security. Jackson says money could be found in overlooked nooks and crannies of the budget to pay for the restoration of security measures.