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HB 4093

To allow those with a concealed carry license to carry a concealed handgun in public school property and buildings.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Kathie Hess Crouse and 4 co-sponsors

West Virginia bill permits concealed carry permit holders to carry handguns onto and inside public school property, removing existing firearms restrictions in K-12 educational buildings.

To House Education
#education(k12) #publicsafety
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Bill Summary · HB 4093

Legislative bill overview

HB 4093 would permit individuals holding valid concealed carry licenses to bring concealed handguns onto public school property and into school buildings in West Virginia. The bill removes the current prohibition on licensed firearm carry in K-12 educational settings, aligning school grounds with other public spaces where concealed carry is permitted.

Why is this important

Schools are spaces where thousands of minors gather daily, making firearms policy there a consequential public safety decision. This bill represents a significant shift in how states balance Second Amendment rights with school security protocols, directly affecting school safety policies, insurance considerations, and emergency procedures across the state's public education system.

Potential points of contention

  • School safety concerns: Opponents argue that allowing firearms in schools with high concentrations of minors increases risks of accidental discharge, theft of weapons, escalation of conflicts, or access by students
  • Liability and insurance: Questions about who bears responsibility if a licensed carrier's weapon is accessed by a student, lost, or used in an incident; potential impact on school district insurance costs
  • Implementation logistics: Practical concerns about how schools verify licensure, establish storage requirements, train staff on active shooter scenarios with armed civilians present, and coordinate with law enforcement response protocols
  • Variation from federal guidance: The approach conflicts with recommendations from major school safety organizations and the Biden administration's school safety guidelines emphasizing gun-free zones

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

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