1980 Press Photo Metal Detectors Installed at Balcony of Alabama State Capitol

It looks like the sort of metal detector used at airports, and it is. But this unit was installed at the Alabama Capitol, where officials have grown increasingly wary of the potential for violence or unruliness in areas which used to have free public access. The detector, and an extra complement of troopers, were on duty this week during a demonstration by people complaining against cuts in welfare, although there were no incidents. This session the Legislature has closed public galleries during other mass demonstrations at the Capitol, as well ass limited access by lobbyists, apparently ending the days of being able to freely wander around the building. Montgomery, Alabama

Photo measures 8 x 10.25 inches. Photo is dated 03-10-1980.

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