Campus gun law debuts in West Virginia, joining 11 other states

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – People with concealed weapon permits can possess firearms on West Virginia public college and university campuses under a state law that took effect Monday.

Higher education institutions can implement exceptions to the law, which prohibits the visible carrying of a firearm on campus.

Similar legislation has been passed in 11 other states.

As the bill passed the Legislature last year, the presidents of West Virginia's largest schools told lawmakers that the decision whether to allow guns on campus should be left to institutions. They also expressed concerns about students struggling with mental health issues.

When Republican Gov. Jim Justice signed the law in March 2023, he said he wanted the law to “send a message to the world: By God, if you're going to come after us, we can come after you.” “.

Schools are allowed to regulate the carrying of firearms in residence halls, but not in common areas, including lounges, dining halls and study rooms. The law also prohibits people from bringing firearms into areas that can accommodate more than 1,000 spectators (such as football stadiums) or into campus child care centers.

Exceptions to the law are permitted in premises where disciplinary proceedings against a student or employee are taking place. In addition, firearms may be restricted in specifically designated areas where patient care or mental health counseling is provided.

Colleges and universities must provide a secure location for storing a handgun or revolver in at least one residence hall on campus or make safes available in residence hall rooms, which may incur a fee.

West Virginia University has formed a campus security group to deal with the law. Gun lockers are available to students living in residence halls for $140 per semester, Dean of Students Corey Farris said. He said the university has received five requests for gun lockers on its campuses, including four in Morgantown. The university estimated it would cost $1 million to implement the law.