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HB 2564

Relating generally to the Business and Public Area Liability Protection Act

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Chris Anders and 5 co-sponsors

House Bill 2564 allows qualified individuals to carry firearms in public areas of state buildings unless adequate security measures are in place, balancing rights and safety.

To House Judiciary
#publicsafety
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 2564

Summary of House Bill 2564: Business and Public Area Liability Protection Act

Bill Number: HB 2564
Introduced On: February 18, 2025
Current Status: Referred to House Judiciary
Subject: Public Safety

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 2564, known as the Business and Public Area Liability Protection Act, aims to amend existing laws regarding the carrying of firearms in state and municipal buildings. The bill seeks to clarify the conditions under which legally qualified individuals may carry firearms in public areas, particularly when adequate security measures are not in place.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces several important changes to the Code of West Virginia, specifically §61-7-14, which governs the possession of firearms in public spaces:

  1. Definition of Adequate Security Measures:

    • The bill defines "adequate security measures" as the presence of electronic equipment and armed personnel at public entrances to detect and restrict weapons. This includes the use of metal detectors and secure storage options for firearms.

  2. Rights of Property Owners:

    • Property owners, lessees, or those in charge of real property may prohibit the carrying of firearms on their premises, provided they inform individuals of such restrictions.

  3. Carrying Firearms in Public Areas:

    • Legally qualified individuals are allowed to carry firearms in public areas of state or municipal buildings unless those areas have adequate security measures in place.
    • Public employers cannot prohibit employees from carrying firearms at their workplace unless adequate security measures are implemented.

  4. Prohibition of Searches:

    • The bill prohibits property owners from conducting searches of vehicles in parking lots to ascertain the presence of firearms, thereby protecting the privacy rights of individuals.

  5. Penalties for Non-Compliance:

    • Individuals who refuse to relinquish possession of a firearm upon request or fail to leave the premises may face misdemeanor charges, including fines up to $1,000 or imprisonment for up to six months.

Who Would Be Affected

  • Legally Qualified Individuals: Those who meet the criteria for carrying firearms under West Virginia law.
  • Public Employers: State and municipal entities, excluding school districts, which will need to assess their security measures.
  • Employees and Invitees: Individuals working or visiting public buildings who may wish to carry firearms.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was introduced and referred to the House Judiciary Committee on the same day, February 18, 2025. Further legislative actions will determine its progression through the legislative process.

Conclusion

House Bill 2564 seeks to balance the rights of individuals to carry firearms in public spaces with the responsibilities of property owners and public employers to ensure safety. By establishing clear definitions and conditions for carrying firearms, the bill aims to enhance public safety while respecting individual rights.

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

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