Gallery rules
Senate Rules outline the respectful behavior expected of guests and visitors to the Senate, in the Senate gallery.
Senate Gallery Rules
The Senate gallery is located on the 4th floor of the Legislative Building and overlooks the Senate chamber. It is open to the public during floor sessions. We encourage you to visit the Senate gallery and watch your Senators in action. The rules of the Senate require that you to be quiet and respectful. Legislators work under a set of rules that allow respectful, courteous debate on sometimes contentious issues.
The Lieutenant Governor maintains order and decorum in the Senate chamber and ensures that both members and the public follow Senate rules.
The following items are not allowed, among other things:
- Signs, banners, placards, or other props that could be construed as an effort to promote demonstrations;
- All weapons, including guns/firearms, bladed instruments, or any other dangerous item;
- Audible or visual signals from the gallery to the chamber floor, including whistling, calling, chanting, or waving;
- Animals, other than service animals;
- Applause, clapping, and/or demonstrations;
- Umbrellas, strollers, camera tripods, sticks, or similar items that could block movement or take up seating space in the gallery;
- Food and drinks;
- Large overcoats/jackets, cases, bags, backpacks, and packages (small purses or cases may be allowed into the gallery at the discretion of Senate Security after their contents are inspected for prohibited items);
- Unattended children.
Additionally, please:
- Turn off your cell phones and other personal electronic devices;
- Remove your hat before entering the gallery;
- Children are not permitted in the front row.
Senate Security monitors and enforces the gallery rules. The Senate committee hearing rooms rules are similar. Please call 360-786-7572 with any questions.