AUGUSTA, Maine — It has been a busy year at the Maine State House, not just for passing legislation but also because of two bomb hoaxes and threats against lawmakers.
Talk of making the Maine State House complex more secure has been happening for years, but now those plans are finally moving forward.
"It's pretty clear we're in a new place in time when it comes to the politics in this country and sort of the emotion that goes with it," Maine Capitol Police Chief Matthew Clancy said.
According to Clancy, that is partly why the changes are being made.
The security upgrades, expected to cost about $7 million, include reconfiguring the screening area at the main entrance of the State House. The adjacent Burton M. Cross Office Building, which houses legislative offices, will also get security screening for the first time.
Clancy said people will still be able to move between the two buildings using the existing tunnel that connects them.
"You will not have to screen a second time," he explained.
While legislative leaders unanimously approved parts of these plans, some expressed concerns.
"I really think I’d feel a lot safer with added police in the building and increasing their salaries, just because $7 million seems like a lot of money," House Minority Leader Billy Bob Faulkingham, R-Winter Harbor, said.
Clancy told NEWS CENTER Maine several officers have been added, but he said he would like to see more police presence at the complex over time.
Meanwhile, other leaders say these changes are needed and will look out for not just lawmakers.
“The public should be able to come here and feel very comfortable that no matter what they say, do, or even if they’re just sitting, there that they’re safe," Senate Majority Leader Troy Jackson, D-Allagash, said.
The project is expected to be finished in late 2025, according to Clancy.