Dayton, leaders talk about Minn. Capitol security

Legislative leaders and Gov. Mark Dayton met Tuesday to talk about added security at Minnesota's state Capitol in the wake of the shootings in Tucson that killed six.

They talked about a 2009 report by the state's Legislative Auditor that outlined weak points in state government security. But lawmakers and the governor only agreed to keep talking about it.

Dayton said Minnesotans are safe in the meantime.

"No one can guarantee -- and I can say that being at the U.S. Capitol on 9-11 and seeing the events that unfolded thereafter -- that there's no way anyone can guarantee somebody complete 100,000 percent protection in any public space," he said, "but I can assure people, especially give the reality of Minnesotans and the sensibilities of our citizens, that protection is secure."

Dayton said he and legislative leaders wouldn't rule out adding metal detectors or other measures to the Capitol. Meanwhile Republican Senate Majority Leader Amy Koch said lawmakers want to assure easy access for the public.

"This is the people's house, and we want to protect the people that work here every day," she said. "But we also want to provide free access and a welcoming atmosphere. So this group will be tasked with also discussing that philosophy and where we are on that spectrum."

The governor's office and legislators plan to activate a committee suggested by the Legislative auditor nearly two years ago. They hope to have recommendations in six weeks.