Gov. Laura Kelly has closed the state office buildings in the Capitol complex in Topeka for Tuesday, Jan. 19, and Wednesday, Jan. 20, according to an announcement.
Curtis, Landon and Eisenhower buildings will be closed, along with additional administration buildings, according to a news release from the governor’s office.
States were warned by the FBI that extremists might try to target state capitols, according to national reports. Wednesday will be the inauguration of President-elect Joe Biden in Washington, D.C.
“The safety and well-being of our employees is my top priority,” Gov. Kelly said in a news release. “These steps are taken out of an abundance of caution – and I thank all employees for their patience and understanding during this time.”
Employees are instructed to work remotely. If an employee’s regular duties require them to be in the office – and they cannot work from home – they are instructed not to report to work Tuesday, Jan. 19 or Wednesday, Jan. 20, according to the governor’s office.
Gov. Kelly encouraged agency heads with offices in the immediate surrounding area beyond the State Office Buildings to follow similar procedure.
The Statehouse will be open for individuals having business with the Legislature, governor’s or lieutenant governor’s offices, according to the announcement. All Statehouse access will be through the Visitor Center entrance only.
Also closed to the public Tuesday and Wednesday, Jan. 19 and 20, will be the Kansas Department for Children and Families offices in Topeka and Kansas City, Kansas, according to an announcement.
Clients may still conduct business with the agency by applying online for services at www.dcf.ks.gov. Also, clients may call 1-888-369-4777 to talk with a DCF worker or call the Kansas Protection Report Center number at 1-800-922-5330.
Kansas Chief Justice Marla Luckert announced the Kansas Judicial Center in Topeka will be closed Tuesday and Wednesday, Jan. 19 and 20, consistent with the actions taken by the governor to close offices of the executive branch.
“This action is to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone who works in the Judicial Center or who had plans to visit,” Luckert said.
Persons with court business are encouraged to contact a court office to schedule a time to visit after Wednesday, according to the announcement.