Metal detectors now at Capitol entries

AUSTIN (KXAN) - New security measures at the State Capitol are finally a reality.

Walk-through metal detectors debuted at each of the four Capitol entrances this week.  And it appeared on Wednesday that Department of Public Safety troopers were being briefed on the new installations.

The detectors look much like ones you would see at the airport, courthouse or many other state and federal buildings. Tours will go through one entrance. Employees and lawmakers will enter from the side.

Back on April 13, the State Preservation Board voted on the upgrades which include x-ray machines, more security cameras, and even bomb sniffing dogs. Governor Rick Perry was opposed to the changes saying long lines may cause frustration on capitol tourists. Some visitors see the upgrades as a matter of public safety.

"We gotta protect our public servants along with ourselves," said tourist Fred Gleaves. "It's every Texans duty to protect the State of Texas."

Right now the metal detectors are not working. DPS won't give an exact date but would only say they should be working soon.