Media Advisory - Clear Bag Notice Announced for King Day Rally Event at State Capitol Complex

Wed, 01/15/2025

Media Advisory: Clear Bag Notice Announced for Upcoming Event at State Capitol Complex

Media Partners: The SC Bureau of Protective Services is announcing a clear bag notice for an upcoming event scheduled at the South Carolina State Capitol Complex. Although the organizers of the rally have been notified of the enhanced security measures, we are asking for your help in disseminating this information to the public.

The South Carolina Department of Public Safety's Bureau of Protective Services (BPS) division is responsible for ensuring the safety and security of South Carolina citizens, employees, and state officials who visit and work within the State Capitol Complex.

In light of recent national events, SCBPS is implementing a "clear bag" protocol during the King Day Rally, scheduled for January 20, 2025, at 10 a.m. on the State House grounds.

Visitors will be directed through a security checkpoint and will be required to have an approved clear bag (examples listed below) to attend the rally on State House grounds. Each attendee will be allowed ONE approved clear bag during the event.

Description of approved bags:

• Clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bags or backpacks of any size
• One-gallon clear plastic freezer bags (Ziploc or similar)

Exceptions may be made for diaper bags, medically necessary bags, and equipment bags for credentialed members of the media. However, additional screening will be required for entry.

Learn more about this enhanced security measure by visiting our website: https://scdps.sc.gov/clearbag

The public is asked to report any suspicious activity on State House grounds by locating the nearest law enforcement official on-site, by calling the BPS Emergency Line at 803-734-2422, or by calling 911.

The South Carolina Department of Public Safety includes the Highway Patrol, State Transport Police, Bureau of Protective Services, Office of Highway Safety and Justice Programs, and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Officers Hall of Fame. Our mission is to ensure public safety by protecting and serving the People of South Carolina and its visitors.