LANSING, Mich. – Concerns at the Michigan Capitol Building in Lansing are on the rise amid chatter of widespread protests in the days leading up to President-Elect Joe Biden’s Inauguration on Jan. 20. Under the recommendation of Michigan State Police, a six-foot tall fence around the Michigan Capitol Building in Lansing will be completed Friday to guard against the possibility of violence. On Monday, the Michigan State Capitol Commission unanimously voted to ban the open carry of guns from inside the Michigan Capitol. Michigan State Police circled the Capitol Building in Lansing in large numbers -- on foot and on bikes -- ahead of the fence going up Friday. Additionally, Michigan’s State Capitol Commission voted to ban open carry of firearms at the Capitol on Monday.

The Michigan Capitol Building opened for the first time Wednesday. Democratic members of the Senate decried the deadly siege on the U.S. Capitol Building that left five dead. Newly ensconsed House Speaker Jason Wentworth said working to restore trust in politicians starts with adjusting the Lame Duck Sessions. Another House Bill proposed prohibits legislators from voting on a bill that would personally enrich them or their families. Additionally, Michigan’s State Capitol Commission voted to ban open carry of firearms at the Capitol on Monday.

LANSING, Mich. – The state of Michigan is planning to install a six-foot tall fence around the Capitol building due to the possibility of armed protests, Capitol Commissioner John Truscott said. On Monday, the Michigan State Capitol Commission unanimously voted to ban the open carry of guns from inside the Michigan Capitol, effective immediately. The commission, which is responsible for overseeing the Capitol, voted 6-0 in favor of banning firearms from inside the Lansing Capitol building. “No lawmaker, reporter, staff member, or anyone who works in the Michigan Capitol should fear for their safety at work,” Whitmer said. I am hopeful that the Capitol Commission will recognize the need for further action, and I stand ready to assist in implementing this policy to keep Michiganders safe.”