Commission approves amendment to allow limited Saturday Capitol visits

LANSING — The Michigan State Capitol Commission voted unanimously to amend commission procedures to permit the Capitol to open on select Saturdays with the approval of the MSCC executive director.

Commissioner Joan moved the amendment to add language in Section 3(a) specifying that the Capitol can be open on select Saturdays with the executive director's approval; the motion was seconded and commissioners discussed security and staffing logistics. Rob said the commission and Michigan State Police will provide required coverage and the monthly openings will be evaluated.

Commissioner John said weekend openings would expand access for people who cannot visit during weekdays, including out-of-state visitors and local residents. Commissioners confirmed the openings will be by guided tour, staff encouraged reservations but said walk-ins will be accommodated when possible. The amendment was adopted by roll call, with six yes votes.

The amendment preserves closures on Sundays and holidays and frames the Saturday openings as an evaluative pilot program; staff will coordinate logistics with Michigan State Police and return as needed with operational details.