COLUMBUS — Officials have locked the doors to the Ohio Statehouse as thousands of union protesters gather on the grounds to oppose a bill that would strip public employees of collective bargaining rights.

Ohio Public Safety spokesman Joe Andrews says about 1,000 people have been allowed into the Rotunda and Atrium for a 4 p.m. committee hearing on the bill. Additional visitors are being directed to an off-site theater, where the meeting will be simulcast. The Statehouse halls, meeting rooms and basement area remain mostly empty.

Andrews says access is being denied to visitors without appointments in the interest of safety.

Attorney Don McTigue (mik-TEYEG’) says his office has contacted the attorney general’s staff on behalf of labor organizations in an effort to gain access for as many people as possible.