ST. PAUL — Extra security officers are patrolling Minnesota’s Capitol as the House debates the highly-charged issue of legalizing gay marriage.

State lawmakers have been advised that 30 to 40 additional uniformed officers will be on hand to maintain a safe environment during debate Thursday. Thousands of people are expected to be on the Capitol grounds while the House weighs the gay marriage bill.

A memo from House leaders on the stepped-up presence says the gallery overlooking the floor will be restricted more than usual, and guest passes for floor access won’t be allowed.

If the House approves the bill it heads to the Senate for a vote Monday. Gov. Mark Dayton says he would sign the law making Minnesota the 12th state to allow gay marriage.