Free-speech rules OK'd for Capitol

The Capitol Preservation Board on Tuesday easily passed previously controversial rules governing free-speech and commercial activities at the state Capitol complex.

Each rule passed quickly and without comment, despite garnering strong public outcry and accusations of First Amendment infringement when they were first introduced. After a public comment period, policymakers made significant revisions to the rules, particularly one that governs free-speech activities, such as leafleting, at the statehouse.

The version approved Tuesday allows outdoor activities 24 hours a day and indoor activities from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., or as long as the building is open. Free-speech leafleting will now be allowed in all public areas at all times, so long as it does not prevent others from accessing sidewalks and doorways.

David Hart, executive director of the Capitol Preservation Board, said Tuesday that all Capitol staff will receive training on the new regulations.

Earlier this month, the Legislative Management Committee adopted a similar rule for the areas of the Capitol under the jurisdiction of the Legislature, which is much of the House building, or the West building of the temporary Capitol complex. The governor's and other executive offices are housed in the East building, which is governed by the Capitol Preservation Board.