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WV HB4372

Bill

Official Source

Status

Introduced

1/15/2026

Primary Sponsor

Doug Smith

Click for details

Origin

House of Delegates

2026 Regular Session

AI Summary

  • Authorizes K-12 teachers, administrators, and support personnel to carry concealed firearms on school property after being designated as a School Protection Officer (SPO) by their county superintendent
  • Requires SPO applicants to hold a valid concealed carry permit and complete a School Protection Officer Training Program (SPOTP) of up to 24 hours initially, with 8 hours of annual requalification training
  • Training curriculum includes active shooter neutralization, de-escalation techniques, crisis intervention, trauma/first aid care, and tactical live firearms training coordinated by the West Virginia Department of Homeland Security
  • Mandates annual behavioral health assessments for all SPOs conducted by Regional Comprehensive Behavioral Health Centers
  • Appropriates $5,000 per participating county school district (up to $275,000 total for all 55 counties) to fund yearly training, with SPOs personally responsible for weapons qualification costs up to $50

Legislative Description

Permit teachers in K-12 schools be authorized to carry concealed firearms as a designated school protection officer

Education (K12)

Last Action

To House Education

1/15/2026

Committee Referrals

Education1/15/2026

Full Bill Text

No bill text available