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Legislative News and Views - Rep. Zack Stephenson (DFL)

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House DFL Leader Zack Stephenson Statement on Weapons Screening at the State Capitol

Monday, January 26, 2026

Saint Paul, Minn. - Rep. Zack Stephenson released the following statement on Governor Walz’s executive order implementing weapons screening at the Minnesota State Capitol:

“This is a good, important step forward to ensure the safety of members, staff, and the public. Members of the public can’t and won’t engage in the legislative process if the Capitol Complex isn’t safe. We have a responsibility to keep the Capitol safe for all Minnesotans. This shouldn’t be controversial. All of our courthouses have weapon screening — if it works for Koochiching County it should work for the State Capitol. I’m grateful to Governor Walz, the Department of Public Safety, and the Minnesota State Patrol for taking this action. 

“This is personal for House DFLers. While we are pleased with today’s action, we will continue to advocate for a full ban on guns at the State Capitol."