Still no nativity scenes, atheists signs at state Capitol

Still not allowed inside the state Capitol in Olympia: Nativity scenes, atheist signs or Festivus poles.

On Wednesday, the Department of General Administration, which oversees the Capitol grounds, released its proposed permanent rules regarding the use of public areas of the Capitol.

The proposed rules are similar to an interim policy announced last month. The rules would prohibit any nongovernmental displays inside any building on the Capitol grounds. But displays outside, on the campus grounds, may be allowed.

The rules are in response to the furor that erupted last year after an atheist group put up an anti-religion sign next to a Nativity scene in the Capitol.

The proposed rules can be viewed at: www.ga.wa.gov/Rules/rules_proposed.htm.

Written comments may also be submitted through Sept. 22 at that Web site.

A public hearing will be held at 4 p.m. Sept. 22 at the General Administration Building Auditorium, 210 11th Ave. S.W. in Olympia.

Times staff and news services