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Bill

HB 2164

To allow for public and private schools in West Virginia to employ security personnel.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by David Cannon and 8 co-sponsors

HB 2164 allows West Virginia schools to hire certified safety officers, enhancing security for students and staff through training, firearm regulations, and liability measures.

Chapter 94, Acts, Regular Session, 2025
#education(k12)
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Bill Summary · HB 2164

Summary of HB 2164 - School Security Personnel in West Virginia

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 2164 aims to enhance the safety and security of students, faculty, and staff in public and private schools across West Virginia by allowing these institutions to employ certified security personnel, known as school safety officers. The bill seeks to establish a framework for the employment, training, and responsibilities of these officers, thereby promoting a safer educational environment.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces several significant changes and provisions, including:

  • Creation of School Safety Officers:

    • Local school boards, public charter schools, and private or religious schools are authorized to employ school safety officers.

  • Certification and Standards:

    • The director of the Division of Protective Services is tasked with establishing standards for school safety officers, including training and certification requirements.

  • Firearm Regulations:

    • Certified school safety officers are permitted to carry firearms on school grounds, with specific standards and background checks mandated.

  • Detention Powers:

    • The bill outlines the detention powers of school safety officers, including limitations on these powers to ensure compliance with legal standards.

  • Annual Training:

    • School safety officers must undergo annual training in collaboration with local county sheriff's departments, covering topics such as conflict resolution, emergency response, and working with students with special needs.

  • Independent Contractors:

    • County boards of education may contract with independent contractors, referred to as "West Virginia guardians," who are former law enforcement officers, to provide security services on school grounds.

  • Insurance and Liability:

    • Schools employing safety officers are required to obtain liability insurance, and the bill clarifies the liability and responsibilities of school safety officers.

  • Exemptions and Participation:

    • The participation of county boards in the program is voluntary and subject to available funding, with specific exemptions from state benefit programs outlined.

Affected Parties

  • Schools: Public and private educational institutions in West Virginia will have the option to employ school safety officers, enhancing their security measures.
  • Students and Staff: The primary beneficiaries of this legislation are students, faculty, and staff, who will have improved safety and security on school premises.
  • Law Enforcement: Local law enforcement agencies will collaborate with school safety officers, particularly in training and emergency response scenarios.

Procedural Timeline

  • Introduced: January 29, 2025
  • Passed: April 12, 2025
  • Effective Date: July 11, 2025 (90 days from passage)
  • Legislative Actions: The bill underwent multiple readings and amendments in both the House and Senate before being approved by the Governor on April 29, 2025.

Conclusion

HB 2164 represents a proactive approach to school safety in West Virginia, providing a structured framework for the employment of school safety officers. By establishing clear standards and responsibilities, the bill aims to foster a secure learning environment for all students and staff.

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

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