Retired Officers Advocate for Enhanced School Safety
In a unanimous decision, the West Virginia Senate passed a bill that allows retired officers to carry guns in schools. Senate Finance Chair, Tarr, stated that retired officers have emphasized the need for trained individuals who can respond immediately to protect children in the event of an active shooter situation.
Support from Democrats and Absence of Republicans
The bill received full support from the three Democrats in the Senate, resulting in unanimous approval. However, two Republican senators were absent and did not vote on the legislation.
Next Steps: House of Delegates
The bill will now move to the House of Delegates for further consideration. This is not the first time such a bill has been presented. Last year, a similar bill passed in the Senate but failed to progress in the House. Additionally, a different bill allowing K-12 teachers and administrators with concealed carry permits to carry firearms was passed by a House committee but was not further pursued.
Key Provisions of the Bill
If enacted, the bill would authorize county boards of education to contract with honorably discharged veterans, former state troopers, former deputy sheriffs, or former federal law enforcement officers. It is important to note that these contractors would not be considered law enforcement officers and would not possess arrest powers.
To qualify for the position, a contractor must have a concealed carry permit, pass a preemployment drug screening, and undergo physical, vision, and psychiatric examinations. Training with firearms and/or lethal use of force would also be mandatory.
The bill prohibits the employment of contractors with convictions related to domestic violence, driving under the influence, child abuse, and other criminal offenses.
Enhanced Safety Measures
Under this legislation, county boards of education have the flexibility to determine the number of veterans or retired officers necessary to ensure school safety. According to Republican Senator Laura Wakim Chapman of Ohio County, passing this bill is a crucial step towards providing a safer learning environment for students, teachers, and staff. She emphasized the importance of everyone involved in the education system being able to attend school with the confidence that they will return home safely.
