The proposed bill seeks to amend West Virginia's Code regarding the carrying of firearms in state and municipal buildings, specifically addressing the conditions under which legally qualified individuals may carry handguns or other deadly weapons. It introduces the term "The Business and Public Area Liability Protection Act" and defines "adequate security measures" as the presence of electronic equipment and armed personnel to prevent weapons from being carried into public areas. The bill stipulates that the carrying of firearms is not prohibited in public areas of state or municipal buildings unless adequate security measures are in place. Additionally, it allows authorized personnel to carry weapons throughout the building unless similar security measures are implemented.

Furthermore, the bill outlines the rights of employees and the responsibilities of public employers regarding the carrying of firearms. It prohibits public employers from restricting legally qualified employees from carrying firearms at their workplace unless adequate security measures are in place. The bill also includes provisions that protect individuals from being penalized for storing firearms in their vehicles in parking lots, as long as the firearms are lawfully possessed and out of view. The Attorney General is granted the authority to enforce these provisions and seek civil penalties for violations, while also allowing individuals to bring their own actions for violations of their rights under this bill.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 61-7-14