Gov. Dannel Malloy did not attend an autism awareness event he was scheduled to attend at the State Capitol on Wednesday.
The appearance was scheduled on the same day Connecticut lawmakers voted on a comprehensive gun control measure that expands a ban on assault weapons and would prohibit the sale or possession of magazines capable of holding more than 10 rounds.
Hundreds of gun rights advocates protested at the State Capitol Wednesday to voice their opposition to the proposed law.
The Governor's security detail decided to cancel the appearance, according to a spokesperson for Malloy. The spokesperson did not say the cancellation was related to the protests.
"When the Governor's security makes a decision on an event, we don't question that determination," Andrew Doba said.
Malloy supports the gun control legislation and has been criticized by gun rights advocates and gun manufacturers for his position.
Lt. Paul Vance, of the Connecticut State Police, said there was no specific threat against Malloy, but the security detail deemed the situation "unsuitable."
The autism event went on as scheduled without Gov. Malloy.
Connecticut's State Senate passed the measure 26-10 Wednesday evening. The bill moved to the House, where a vote was expected later Wednesday night.
Photo Credit: NBC Connecticut