CHARLESTON, W.Va. – The West Virginia Senate has passed a bill to establish the West Virginia Guardian Program, a new initiative aimed at enhancing school security by allowing trained personnel to carry firearms on school grounds.
The legislation, which now moves to the House of Delegates for consideration, would enable school districts to appoint designated staff members as “guardians” to respond to active threats in schools. Supporters argue that the measure strengthens student safety, while opponents raise concerns about the risks of arming non-law enforcement personnel.
Key provisions of the bill include rigorous training requirements, background checks, and coordination with local law enforcement agencies. Lawmakers backing the program emphasize that it provides schools—especially in rural areas with limited police presence—an additional layer of protection.
However, critics, including some educators and law enforcement officials, warn of potential dangers and stress the importance of alternative safety measures, such as increased mental health resources and school resource officers.
As the bill heads to the House for debate, the discussion over gun safety and school security in West Virginia continues to intensify.
