RALEIGH -- In recent years, the North Carolina legislative building has been a popular protest site for folks who don't like the direction of state government.  As political discourse remains heightened across the nation those charged with protecting folks in North Carolina's legislative halls say they are constantly on guard.

 “I'm sure if I polled each one of you have you have gotten communications that may not rise to a criminal element, or meet a statute,” Chief Martin Brock with the General Assembly told lawmakers on Thursday , “but it is somewhat concerning. “

Brock talked with legislators about security protocol that is in place, what is being updated, and what upgrades they would like to see.          

One popular question emerged from the legislators.

“How far are we from metal detectors coming into our building?” asked Rep. Garland Pierce, a Scotland County democrat.

Right now, elected officials, employees and the general public can come and go in the legislative complex with no restriction.  The chief would like to see that changed.

“We have been looking at plans and procedures to put that in place,” Brock says. “Recommendations have been submitted to the legislative services office to the legislative services commission.”

The NC Legislative Services Officer, Paul Coble, said in a statement:

"…We have, however, had some studies and presentations done by both outside consultants and government agencies over the past few years that included a number of different measures designed to enhance the security in our buildings. I am looking at the different options to determine what would be efficient and effective for the general assembly."

Earlier this year, Speaker Tim Moore said he agrees enhancements like metal detectors should be considered-- but said its not an easy lift.

“There are numerous entrances to get in and out,” Moore said in June,  “once you start putting in metal detectors you really have to confine the entrances to one or two at that point, or else its cost prohibitive.” 

There are no immediate plans to make any security changes at the legislative complex but leaders say reviews are constantly under consideration.