The recent shootings of two Minnesota lawmakers and their spouses have brought to the forefront the issue of safety at the state Capitol.

For two years, a state task force has been working on a plan to improve safety and quality of life in the surrounding neighborhood. The legislature approved $3 million this year to help pay for the plan, which includes public safety and programs for youth.

Lawmakers who represent the area are hosting an event for this initiative Monday afternoon outside the Capitol. Rep. María Isa Pérez-Vega, DFL-St. Paul, and Ramsey County Sheriff Bob Fletcher joined Minnesota Now to talk about the effort.