In anticipation of the statewide implementation of Campus Carry on Monday, July 1, West Virginia University (WVU) has been preparing to ensure a smooth transition. Dean of Students Corey Farris addressed the press on Thursday, shedding light on the preparations at Morgantown and the two regional campuses.
“We’ve been communicating since springtime the changes that are coming up.,” Farris explained. Efforts have been made to disseminate information to current and incoming students through various channels, including orientations and upcoming fall semester plans.
The Campus Carry policy stems from the Campus Self Defense Act, known as SB 10, which was passed in 2023. This legislation allows individuals with concealed handgun permits to carry concealed firearms on public college and university campuses. The act also outlines regulations for weapons storage and specifies exceptions where campuses can still prohibit weapons.
In April, WVU’s Board of Governors adopted a rule to implement SB 10. The rule applies to WVU, WVU Institute of Technology, and WVU Potomac State College, covering all university campuses, including Charleston HSC, Martinsburg HSC, School of Nursing Bridgeport Campus, and areas under the university’s possession, with the exception of privately occupied spaces.
The rule defines twelve exceptions where “deadly weapons and dangerous objects” will remain prohibited. These exceptions include sole-occupancy offices at the occupant’s discretion, large-capacity events (1,000 or more people) held at stadiums and theaters, WVU daycares, areas assigned to WVU Police or law enforcement, and specific areas within residence halls.
Addressing concerns regarding compliance, Farris expressed confidence in individuals adhering to the rules. Concealed carry means no one is supposed to see someone carrying. “So if we do, we will deal with that, depending on the circumstance. … As long as we educate them, we’re expecting this to go smoothly.,” he asserted.
To learn best practices and gain insights from other states with similar policies, Farris and his team have been engaging with institutions that have already implemented Campus Carry. While some raised concerns about potential violence, Farris mentioned that other universities have reported no increase in violent incidents after instituting such policies.
Assuaging concerns of strains on student mental health, Farris stated that it has not been an issue thus far, both at WVU and across the country. Nevertheless, the university will keep a vigilant eye on this matter.
During the press event, Farris spoke in front of the weapon storage locker situated in Brooke Tower. The Campus Self Defense Act requires WVU to provide secure storage for pistols or revolvers in designated residence halls. The lockers, located in Brooke on the Evansdale Campus and Summit Hall Room 107 on the Downtown Campus, can be reserved by qualifying students for a fee of $140.
Farris noted that there have been a few locker requests for the Morgantown Campus and one request each for the Beckley and Keyser campuses. Other individuals entering prohibited areas will be expected to securely store their firearms elsewhere, such as in their vehicles.
In terms of training and management, resident assistants will undergo extensive training with WVU Police and student conduct staff on how to handle Campus Carry in the residence halls. Additionally, a comprehensive list of frequently asked questions about Campus Carry can be found on the WVU website.
The preparations for Campus Carry were not without cost, with an estimated price tag of around $1 million across the entire WVU system for the initial implementation.
It is important to note that the Ruby Hospital campus, which includes Ruby Hospital, Children’s Hospital, the POC, and Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute, is not subject to the Campus Self Defense Act and is not considered part of the WVU campus.
Looking ahead, Farris emphasized that WVU will remain diligent in monitoring the implementation of Campus Carry and provide ongoing information and support as needed. While a training module for students is being considered, it is not currently mandatory, as only individuals with permits may carry on campus.
As WVU joins the ranks of states with Campus Carry policies, the university stands ready to navigate this new terrain, aiming to balance safety and the rights of individuals within the campus community.