Multiple pro-gun bills were introduced this week in the West Virginia Legislature that seek to provide protections to West Virginians who choose to carry a firearm for self-defense. These bills have been referred to their respective Judiciary Committees and currently await hearing dates.
House Bill 2562, sponsored by Geoff Foster (R-15), specifies that lawful owners of firearms may transport or store the firearms in locked, privately-owned motor vehicles without fear of civil liability, criminal liability or employer retribution. Throughout the country, many employers and business owners have adopted "No Firearms" policies that extend beyond the physical workplace or building to include parking lots – areas often accessible to the general public and not secure. In order to comply with these policies, many law-abiding gun owners must choose between protecting themselves during their commutes and being subject to termination by their employer. The fundamental right to self-defense should not stop simply because you park your car in a publicly accessible parking lot owned by your employer or a business owner.
Senate Bill 388, sponsored by Senator Dave Sypolt (R-14), would allow West Virginia concealed weapons permit holders to carry a firearm for self-defense while dropping off or picking up students on school property, as long as the firearm does not leave the motor vehicle. Current West Virginia law prevents firearms from being carried or transported onto school property, including by those who don’t step foot out of their car. Individuals who are legally allowed to carry a firearm for self-defense should not be barred from doing so while dropping off or picking up their kids from school.
Please contact members of the House and Senate Judiciary Committees and urge them to SUPPORT House Bill 2562 and Senate Bill 388 respectively.
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