The bill introduced in the Committee on Education on February 11, 2026, aims to amend the Code of West Virginia by adding a new section, 18B-4-5c, which establishes guidelines for state institutions of higher education to create standardized campus safety mapping data. This mapping data must conform to specific formats that integrate with local public safety software, be accessible without additional costs, and include detailed information such as accurate floor plans, site-specific labeling, and the locations of critical safety resources. The bill mandates that the data be verified for accuracy through on-site assessments and that it be maintained securely within the United States.

Additionally, the bill requires that the campus safety mapping data be shared at no cost with local first response agencies, including police and emergency services, and that institutions consult with the primary law enforcement agency before creating the mapping data to ensure compliance with the outlined requirements. Importantly, the bill stipulates that the data generated under this section will not be considered a public record, thus protecting it from disclosure under existing public records laws.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 18-9F-10a
Committee Substitute: 18B-4-5c
Engrossed Committee Substitute: 18B-4-5c