Checking the training requirements, this is set up for retired West Virginia state police officers and deputy sheriffs, far more than for veterans
W.Va. Senate passes bill to allow armed “WV Guardians” in schools
The West Virginia Senate passed Senate Bill 143, creating the West Virginia Guardian Program….
CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WTAP) – West Virginia lawmakers are considering a bill that would allow veterans and some retired law enforcement officers to provide armed security in public schools.
The West Virginia Senate passed Senate Bill 143, creating the West Virginia Guardian Program, on Friday.
The bill allows county boards of education in West Virginia to contract with honorably discharged veterans, former state troopers, former sheriff’s deputies, or former federal law enforcement officers to provide public safety and security on public school grounds and buildings.
The bill would not grant arrest authority to WV Guardians but would allow them to carry concealed weapons on school property.
Lead Sponsor Senator Eric Tarr (R – Putnam, Dist. 4) said the bill was informed by conversations with veterans. “This was brought to me by some retired military individuals who were in special forces and had concerns over school shootings that are happening across the country and said that we need people in our schools who are trained to run at a gun in an instant when it’s necessary,” Tarr said.
The bill was introduced last year, when it passed the senate but did not become law. SB 143 will now be considered by the House of Delegates.