This bill amends the Code of West Virginia to permit off-duty law enforcement officers to carry concealed weapons in public schools and at public school events. Specifically, it modifies the existing law regarding the possession of deadly weapons on educational premises, allowing for exceptions for any on or off-duty law enforcement officer employed by a federal, state, county, or municipal law enforcement agency. This change aims to enhance safety and security for children and school personnel by enabling trained law enforcement officers to be armed while off duty.

The bill also maintains existing regulations that prohibit the possession of firearms on school buses and school grounds, with certain exceptions, including for private schools that have policies allowing firearms. Additionally, it outlines penalties for violations of these regulations, including felony charges for unlawful possession of firearms in specified areas. The overall intent of the legislation is to bolster safety measures in educational environments by leveraging the presence of law enforcement officers, even when they are not on duty.

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