This bill proposes the addition of a new section, 36-8A-8, to the Code of West Virginia, which authorizes security personnel employed by the State Treasurer to carry concealed firearms while performing their official duties. The bill outlines specific requirements for these personnel, including obtaining written authorization from the State Treasurer, ensuring they are not prohibited from possessing a firearm under state or federal law, maintaining a concealed handgun license, and successfully completing a firearms training and certification program equivalent to that required for law enforcement officers. Additionally, the State Treasurer is permitted to reimburse security personnel for the costs associated with training and requalification.

Furthermore, the bill provides liability protections for the State Treasurer's security personnel, stating that neither the state, its political subdivisions, nor any employee acting in an official capacity can be held personally liable for actions taken by these security personnel while performing their official duties in good faith. This provision aims to protect the state and its employees from legal repercussions related to the actions of security personnel carrying concealed weapons under the new authorization.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 36-8A-8