This bill aims to amend West Virginia's Code regarding the carrying of firearms in state and municipal buildings, specifically addressing the conditions under which such carrying is permitted. It introduces the "Business and Public Area Liability Protection Act," which stipulates that legally qualified individuals may carry handguns or other deadly weapons in public areas of state or municipal buildings unless those areas have "adequate security measures" in place to prevent weapons from being carried inside. The bill defines "adequate security measures" to include electronic equipment and armed personnel at entrances, as well as provisions for securely storing lawfully carried weapons.

Additionally, the bill outlines the rights of public employers and employees 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 implemented. 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. Furthermore, it grants the Attorney General 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 section.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 61-7-14