Nebraska Capitol Limits North Entrance Access to Public

Public visitors will be required to use a single security checkpoint at the north entrance starting in January 2027.

Updated on Nov. 12, 2026 in Legislative Policy

Photograph of a covered stone driveway beneath broad limestone steps at a state capitol, with open prairie and sky beyond. — Nebraska will bar the public from the Capitol's ceremonial north entrance starting in January 2027, funneling visitors through a single security checkpoint at the building's accessible entrance. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Beginning in January 2027, members of the general public will have to pass through security at the Nebraska Capitol's north entrance, the building's ADA-accessible entrance. The ceremonial north entrance will be closed to the public.

Why it matters

The change follows Legislature-approved security upgrades, including metal detectors, X-ray equipment and 11 new security personnel, amid heightened threats to public officials. Staff and media with Capitol access cards may continue using the other entrances, which already include wheelchair ramps.

The Legislature approved metal detectors, X-ray equipment and 11 new security personnel last spring, with projected costs of about $900,000 this year and $1 million next year. Details on how those costs will be funded have not been specified.

The players

Nebraska Capitol Commission

The commission oversees the Nebraska State Capitol building and made the decision to restrict public access to the north entrance.

Brett Daugherty

Daugherty is a Nebraska public official whose involvement is tied to the Capitol security and access changes.

The details

A consultant recommended the north entrance because it meets Americans With Disabilities Act requirements, which mandate that a set percentage of public entrances be accessible. The north entrance is reached by a covered driveway, known as a porte cochère, beneath the stone steps, and the lower north entrance already has wheelchair ramps.

Last spring (2026): Legislature approves new Capitol security measures.
January 2027: Public must use the north entrance security checkpoint.

Legislative Context

Because ADA rules require a set share of public entrances to be accessible, the Capitol's accessible north entrance became the natural choke point for a single security checkpoint. The move reflects how federal accessibility mandates can shape state government security design.

Visitors entering the Nebraska Capitol will pass through security at the north entrance, and firearms are prohibited except for people with concealed carry permits. Staff and media with Capitol access cards may continue using the other entrances.

The takeaway

Visitors planning to tour the Nebraska Capitol after January 2027 should expect to clear security at the north entrance. Allowing extra time for checkpoint screening will make the visit smoother.