The bill amends the Code of West Virginia to allow designated teachers, administrators, and support personnel in elementary and secondary schools to carry concealed firearms, officially naming them as School Protection Officers (SPOs). The designation process requires approval from the county superintendent and mandates that individuals complete a School Protection Officer Training Program (SPOTP), which will cover essential topics such as threat neutralization, crisis intervention, and first aid. The training program will be developed by the Justice and Community Services section within the West Virginia Department of Homeland Security. Additionally, school districts are required to notify the department of any SPO designations and revocations, while ensuring the confidentiality of SPOs' identifying information.

The bill also includes provisions for parents, guardians, or custodians of minors to report any knowledge of a minor's violation of specific firearm laws to school or law enforcement officials, establishing penalties for failing to report such violations. It clarifies that possessing firearms or deadly weapons in court premises is unlawful, with exceptions for law enforcement officers and individuals exempted by court order. Violations of these provisions carry significant penalties, including fines and imprisonment. The legislation aims to enhance safety in educational facilities while ensuring compliance with federal law and establishing a structured framework for the training and oversight of SPOs.

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