ST. PAUL — Extra security officers are patrolling Minnesota's Capitol as the House debates the highly charged issue of legalizing gay marriage.
State lawmakers have been advised that 30 to 40 additional uniformed officers will be on hand to maintain a safe environment during debate Thursday. Thousands of people are expected to be on the Capitol grounds while the House weighs the gay marriage bill.
A memo from House leaders on the stepped-up presence says the gallery overlooking the floor will be restricted more than usual, and guest passes for floor access won't be allowed.
If the House approves the bill it heads to the Senate for a vote Monday. Gov. Mark Dayton says he would sign the law making Minnesota the 12th state to allow gay marriage.
House prepares to vote
ADVERTISEMENT
Debate on the House floor was scheduled to start in the early afternoon. It could bring thousands to the Capitol, after both supporters and opponents of gay marriage urged their allies to descend on St. Paul.
DFL leaders in the House say they have the votes to pass the bill. If it's successful, the Senate is scheduled to vote on the bill on Monday.
Gay marriage debate under way in Minnesota House
