Campus Self-Defense Act

On July 1, 2024, the Campus Self-Defense Act, took effect in West Virginia. Passed by the West Virginia Legislature in 2023, the Campus Self-Defense Act allows a person to carry a concealed pistol or revolver on the grounds of an institution of higher education, with some exceptions, if that person has a current and valid license to carry a concealed deadly weapon.

The West Virginia State University Board Of Governors met in April 2024 and approved the following exemptions to the Campus Self-Defense

• At an organized event taking place at a stadium or arena with a capacity of more than 1,000;
• At a daycare facility located on university property;
• In the secure area of any building used by the University Police Department;
• In an area that has adequate security measures to ensure pistols or revolvers are not to be carried by the public into the area;
• In an on-campus room or rooms in which a student or employee disciplinary proceeding is being held;
• In sole occupancy offices;
• At a primary or secondary education school-sponsored function being held in a specific location on university property that is rented, leased or under the exclusive use of the West Virginia Department of Education, the West Virginia Secondary Schools Activities Commission, a county school board or a local public school when the function is occurring;
• At a private function that is being held in a specific location on university property that is rented, leased, or under exclusive use of an entity when the function is occurring;
• In any university property where possession of a firearm is prohibited by state or federal law;
• In specifically designated areas in which patient care or mental health counseling is being provided];
• In high hazardous and animal laboratories]; and
• In on-campus residence halls, except common areas such as lounges, dining areas and study areas.