New Campus Self-Defense Act takes effect at WVU July 1

MORGANTOWN, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Starting July 1, Senate Bill 10, known as the West Virginia Campus Self-Defense Act, will be in effect across West Virginia.

Passed by the West Virginia Legislature in 2023, the law permits individuals with a valid concealed carry license to carry a concealed pistol or revolver on higher education campuses, with certain exceptions.

The West Virginia University (WVU) Campus Safety Steering Group has been working diligently for months to prepare for the implementation of this law.

In coordination with various sub-groups, including one dedicated to campus carry, the group has developed resources to guide the WVU community on how the law will be applied across the WVU System.

This week, WVU updated its online resources here .

The website now features a list of exempt locations and campus maps highlighting areas where concealed pistols and revolvers are not allowed.

These updates, along with new signage, will help inform the community about restrictions on the Morgantown, Keyser, Beckley, and Health Sciences campuses.

Facilities staff have begun installing signs in areas exempt from the law under BOG Finance and Administration Rule 5.14 — Deadly Weapons, Dangerous Objects, and the W.Va. Campus Self-Defense Act.

Concealed carry license holders are responsible for understanding and adhering to the specifics of the law and BOG Rule while on campus.

Any violations will be addressed on a case-by-case basis.

The university has also updated its FAQs, including information specifically for Health Sciences, a guide on what to do if someone is seen with a gun on campus, and storage locker requests for qualifying students in residence halls.

Occupants of sole occupancy offices can request approved signage for prohibited areas.

Faculty members are encouraged to include the Faculty Senate-approved statement on concealed carry in their syllabi, available here .

WVU says it remains committed to campus safety and offers various training programs through the University Police Department, including active shooter, self-defense, and verbal de-escalation training.