SC to turn on delayed Statehouse security system

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — The state plans to turn on a security system for the Statehouse complex that former Gov. Mark Sanford mothballed years ago by refusing to let state police take up posts to operate.

Sanford said for years it was a waste of money and doubted the Statehouse would become a target for an attack.

The security system uses automated gates and barriers to block cars from entering the Statehouse grounds or the sprawling underground garage beneath office buildings at the Capitol complex.

State Budget and Control Board Executive Director Marcia Adams told a legislative panel this week that the system will be turned on as early as January.

Adams said new cards will have to be issued to give people to access entrances. That will cost more than $32,000.