The bill amends the Code of West Virginia to permit teachers, administrators, and support personnel in elementary and secondary schools to carry concealed firearms if they are designated as School Protection Officers (SPOs). This designation requires approval from the county superintendent and mandates that individuals complete a School Protection Officer Training Program (SPOTP) developed by the West Virginia Department of Homeland Security. The training focuses on safety, threat neutralization, and crisis intervention, with both initial and annual requalification training requirements. The bill also outlines the process for designating SPOs, including the need for written requests and proof of a valid concealed carry permit, while ensuring that the identities of designated SPOs remain confidential.

Additionally, the bill introduces new legal responsibilities for parents, guardians, or custodians of minors regarding firearm violations, making it unlawful for them to fail to report a minor's violation of firearm laws, with penalties of fines up to $1,000 or jail time up to one year for non-compliance. It also establishes that possessing a firearm in a court of law is a misdemeanor, with escalated penalties for possession with intent to commit a crime. The bill aims to enhance school safety by allowing trained educators to respond to potential threats while ensuring compliance with federal law.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 61-7-11a
Committee Substitute: 61-7-11a