This bill aims to amend West Virginia's firearm possession laws by reinforcing the right to bear arms as a constitutional right under both the Second Amendment and the West Virginia Constitution. It introduces new definitions and provisions regarding who is prohibited from possessing firearms, including individuals convicted of violent crimes, those with substance abuse issues, and individuals subject to domestic violence protective orders. Notably, the bill allows for the reinstatement of firearm rights for individuals who have been convicted of non-violent offenses after a specified period, as well as for those in recovery from substance use disorders, provided they meet certain conditions.

Additionally, the bill explicitly states that law enforcement officers in West Virginia cannot infringe upon the rights of lawful residents to bear arms, while still allowing them to perform their duties related to crime investigation and enforcement. The proposed changes include clarifications on penalties for violations of firearm possession laws and the process for individuals seeking to regain their firearm rights after disqualifying convictions. Overall, the bill seeks to balance the protection of constitutional rights with public safety considerations.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 61-7-7