Bill
HB 5660
Updates to WV license-to-carry rules to modify who can obtain and maintain a carry license, including eligibility, processing, and enforcement.
HB 5660 — Updates to obtaining a license to carry deadly weapons statute (West Virginia, 2026 Session)
Overview
- Purpose: The bill proposes updates to West Virginia’s licensing framework for carrying a deadly weapon. It aims to modify eligibility, application processes, and enforcement related to obtaining and holding a license to carry a weapon in public.
- Status: Passed the House on March 3, 2026 (Roll No. 272) and communicated to the Senate the same day; introduced in the Senate March 4, 2026 and referred to the Judiciary committee. The timeline indicates ongoing Senate consideration after House passage.
Who sponsors and supports
- Primary sponsors: A broad group of House members including co-sponsors Elías Coop-González, Chuck Horst, Lisa White, Jim Butler, Margitta Mazzocchi, Tresa Howell, Bill Ridenour, Laura Kimble, Eric Brooks, and Ian Masters. This suggests cross-party or coalition backing within the chamber.
- Note: Specific policy positions or party alignments are not stated in the provided text; sponsors indicate support for substantive changes to the licensing statute.
Key provisions and changes (as inferred from title and typical legislative updates)
- License eligibility and standards: The bill likely revises who may qualify for a license to carry a deadly weapon, potentially tightening or clarifying background check standards, eligibility criteria, or disqualifying factors.
- Application process: Possible modifications to how applicants apply, required documentation, processing times, fees, or ongoing verification requirements.
- Use and retention of licenses: Potential changes to reciprocity, term length, renewal procedures, or conditions under which a license can be suspended or revoked.
- Enforcement and penalties: Adjustments to enforcement mechanisms for violations of the licensing statute, including sanctions for false statements or unauthorized carry.
- Administrative structure: Possible updates to agency responsibilities (e.g., police, licensing authorities) or appeal processes for license denials or suspensions.
Who would be affected
- Individuals seeking to obtain, renew, or maintain a license to carry a deadly weapon in West Virginia.
- Law enforcement and licensing authorities responsible for processing applications, conducting background checks, and enforcing compliance.
- Employers or institutions that interact with license holders may be impacted through changes in permissible locations or conduct requirements (if provisions touch on where licensed carriers may carry).
Procedural and timeline considerations
- Introduction and committee referrals: The bill was introduced February 17, 2026, and placed with the House Judiciary committee; later marked up and brought to the floor for passage in early March.
- House action: Passed the House on March 3, 2026, with effective date noted as “Effective from passage” (Roll No. 273) alongside the roll call for passage (Roll No. 272).
- Senate action: Referred to Judiciary in the Senate on March 4, 2026; subsequent Senate debate, potential amendments, and final passage would follow as per the chamber’s schedule.
- Effective date: The House action record indicates an immediate effect upon passage in the House; final enactment would depend on Senate passage and signature by the governor or applicable constitutional process.
Notes and considerations
- The bill text is not provided in full here; thus, specific section-by-section changes, numerical thresholds (e.g., background check duration, fee amounts, renewal periods), and precise definitions (e.g., “deadly weapon,” “license,” or “carrying in public”) are not available in this summary.
- Readers should review the final enacted language to confirm exact provisions, timelines, and any transitional rules or grandfathering clauses for existing licensees.
Summary in one line
HB 5660 seeks to update West Virginia’s license-to-carry-deadly-weapon statute, addressing eligibility, processing, enforcement, and administration to reframe who can obtain and maintain a carry license, with immediate House effect upon passage and ongoing Senate consideration.
Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.
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