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SB 37

Clarifying limitations on concealed carry permit

2026 Regular Session

West Virginia bill clarifies which individuals are ineligible for concealed carry permits by refining existing disqualification criteria.

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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 37

Legislative bill overview

SB 37 seeks to clarify existing legal restrictions on who can obtain concealed carry permits in West Virginia. The bill modifies language in state law to specify which individuals are prohibited from obtaining permits, focusing on criminal history, mental health adjudications, and other disqualifying factors already established under federal and state law.

Why is this important

Concealed carry permit regulations directly affect public safety policy and Second Amendment rights. Clarifying disqualification criteria reduces ambiguity for permit-issuing officials, potentially decreasing inconsistent application across counties and legal challenges to permit decisions.

Potential points of contention

  • Interpretation of mental health restrictions: Defining what constitutes a disqualifying mental health determination—whether it includes voluntary treatment, emergency commitments, or only court adjudications—can significantly impact who loses gun rights
  • Domestic violence provisions: How domestic violence convictions and protective orders are classified as disqualifiers affects their enforcement and may conflict with federal standards
  • Due process concerns: Clarifying restrictions without clear appeal mechanisms or removal procedures could raise constitutional questions about restoration of rights after disqualification periods

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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