This bill proposes the creation of a new article in the Code of West Virginia, specifically addressing the establishment and regulation of school protection officers. It grants sheriffs the authority to appoint qualified individuals as school protection officers on school premises, outlining the requirements for appointment, including background checks and psychological evaluations. The bill specifies that these officers will not be classified as regular law enforcement deputies, thus exempting them from certain civil service provisions. It also delineates their powers, which include general police authority and the ability to enforce school regulations, while prohibiting them from engaging in political activities.

Additionally, the bill establishes a framework for the removal of school protection officers, stipulating that they can be dismissed by the sheriff or the court with just cause. It allows for the application of grants to enhance the capabilities of these officers and includes a severability clause to ensure that if any part of the law is deemed invalid, the remainder will still be enforceable. The legislation aims to enhance school safety by clearly defining the roles, responsibilities, and legal protections for school protection officers.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 7-14F-1, 7-14F-2, 7-14F-3, 7-14F-4, 7-14F-5, 7-14F-6, 7-14F-7, 7-14F-8, 7-14F-9