KSDK News Channel 5 reported in Jefferson City, MO on January 20,2021
News 5 reported on the extra Missouri State Highway Patrol troopers and state park rangers at the Capitol. After the violent breach of Capitol security in Washington, the FBI warned all 50 state capitals of potential armed protests leading up to and on January 20.
Democratic state Senator Brian Williams from St. Louis said after a security briefing Tuesday he is confident if there are protests, Capitol Police and other agencies will be able to protect the building. But his concerns go beyond Wednesday.
“We live in a state where there are no laws that would prevent anyone from freely carrying a firearm,” Williams said, referencing the state’s so-called ‘open carry’ law that does not require a permit for a firearm. “Until we do background checks … in the state of Missouri we’re going to always be in harms’ way.”
– Senator Brian Williams