Law Enforcement Preparing For Massive Demonstration At The State Capitol

The Oklahoma Department of Public Safety is expecting up to 30,000 people to gather Monday at the state Capitol for the teacher and state employee walkout demonstration.

DPS says enhanced security measures will be in place on Capitol grounds and inside the building.

The department has issued guidelines for those who plan on attending the demonstration:

• Every person entering the Capitol building must go through security. The lines will be long, so plan on long wait times.
• State employees attending the demonstration may hold up their state ID to expedite their entrance.
• No overnight camping will be allowed on Capitol grounds. 
• No guns, knives or other weapons are allowed inside the building.
• Signs are allowed inside the Capitol ONLY if they are not on a stick. Banners are allowed but cannot be posted on any walls inside the building. 
• Face masks are not allowed.
• The state has not determined a limit on the number of people who can be inside the building at the same time. State officials reserve the right to limit numbers if the size of the crowd becomes a safety issue, and at that point the process will be “one in, one out.” 
• Carry as few items as possible to facilitate security procedures and keep the lines moving more quickly.
• The forecast currently calls for cool weather and a chance of rain. Be aware that you may be spending a large part of the day outdoors and dress accordingly. 

DPS says anyone wanting to visit a state office during the demonstration will need to be aware that many state employees may be taking part in the walkout. So expect delays and staff shortages. 

They say to expect traffic delays around the state Capitol complex and nearby neighborhoods.