Campus Carry

Why do all employees need to be familiar with the policy?

a. Being well-versed in the policy enables us to effectively communicate its details to potential students, their parents, and the community. This ensures clarity and consistency in the information provided, fostering trust and understanding.

b. Please note: it is up to each employee to be familiar with the WVNCC Campus Administrative Policy:  https://www.wvncc.edu/docs/x8_DangerousWeaponsCampusCarryfinal.pdf

Can I carry a concealed firearm on WVNCC campus?

a. Yes, after July, 1, 2024, you may carry a concealed firearm if you have a valid license to carry a concealed deadly weapon then you may conceal carry on campus, unless designated otherwise.

Why is WVNCC making this change?

a. WVNCC is following the state law passed by the West Virginia Legislature and signed by Gov. Jim Justice in 2023.  All public higher education institutions in the state are required to adhere to the Campus Self-Defense Act

 How does the law define a pistol?   -How does the law define a revolver?

a. Pistol is defined a “a short firearm having a chamber which with the barrel, designed to be aimed and fired by the use of a single hand”

b. Revolver is defined a “a short firearm having a cylinder of several chambers that are brought successively into line with the barrel to be discharged, designed to be aimed and fired by the use of a single hand”

c. “By use of a single hand” is the key phrase.   Also, the pistol or revolver must be concealed and carried by a person who is licensed to do so.

After the law changes on July 1, 2024, will people be able to carry guns openly on campus property?

a.  No.   Only people who are licensed to carry a concealed pistol or revolver will be permitted to have the weapons in areas where they are allowed, and weapons must not be visible

b.  WVNCC will still prohibit other firearms, deadly weapons and dangerous objects.  

If I have a current and valid concealed carry license from another state, will I be able to legally carry a pistol or revolver on campus?

a.     Yes, if the license was issued in a state that has reciprocity with West Virginia

States Recognizing West Virginia Concealed Handgun Licenses (WV.gov)

 Is a provisional license issued under West Virginia law acceptable under the Campus Self-Defense Act?

a.     Yes.

 Are you allowed to constitutional carry on campus?

a.     No, you are required to have a license to carry a concealed deadly weapon  in accordance with W.Va. Code § 61-7-4.

9.     Where can I get more information about obtaining a license to carry a concealed weapon

a.     From the sheriff’s office in your county of residence.   

Where can I learn more about gun laws in West Virginia?

a.     The West Virginia Attorney General’s office published a guide to concealed handgun laws in West Virginia in  July 2020, and it contains a significant amount of useful information for those wanting to learn more about the gun laws in West Virginia 

Who is responsible for knowing and following the provisions in the Campus Self-Defense Act?
a.     The individual carrying the gun or revolver is expected to know and follow applicable laws.

What should I do if I see a person carrying a pistol, revolver or any other type of deadly weapon or dangerous object openly?
a.     The law requires pistols and revolvers to remain concealed.

b.     If a person’s pistol or revolver is not concealed — meaning it is fully showing, outlined or becomes visible as they move — contact Campus Security, regardless of your campus location, at 304-650-9994 during the day and 304 650 9996 in the evening and provide as much information as possible. An officer will follow up with the situation, when warranted.

c.      If you see a rifle or larger firearm on campus or if anyone is ever acting in a threatening or suspicious manner with any firearm, including a pistol or revolver that is supposed to be concealed, call 911 immediately.

What if I am carrying a concealed revolver or pistol and I have to go into an area where concealed revolvers and pistols are prohibited?
a.     Members of the College community should make plans to store or leave at home anything that would be prohibited in a specific area where they must go to do their job or attend class.

b.     Employees or students may, consistent with their schedules, decide to secure any pistols or revolvers they may be carrying in their vehicles as long as vehicles are locked and guns are out of view, as required by the West Virginia Business Liability Protection Act.

What should I do if I think a person has a concealed pistol or revolver in a prohibited area?
a.     Contact Campus Security at 304-650-9994 during the day and 304-650-9996 in the evening.    An officer will make the determination and, if necessary, ask the person to leave. Refusing to do so may warrant further action from the College

I am an employee with a valid concealed carry license. Am I allowed to carry my firearm while driving a State vehicle or a rental vehicle while on College business?

a.     Employees or students may not carry weapons In a College vehicle or rental vehicle while on College business

In general, the law allows for exceptions to the Campus Self-Defense Act, meaning all guns, including pistols and revolvers, will remain prohibited for even licensed carriers in certain locations. Visit https://www.wvncc.edu/docs/x8_DangerousWeaponsCampusCarryfinal.pdf to find out more.

If I have a valid concealed carry license, where am I NOT allowed to carry my pistol or revolver on WEST VIRGINIA NCC property?

a.     In an on-campus room or rooms where a previously announced student or employee disciplinary proceeding is being held;

b.     In a sole occupancy office when the occupant has placed a sign outside the office stating weapons are prohibited;

c.      In high hazardous and animal labs;

Welding lab (ITC 102)
HVAC lab (ATC 110)
Other labs that fall within the definition of “high hazardous and animal laboratories” stated above and designated by signage

d.     At a primary or secondary education school-sponsored function held in a specific location on the College 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 local public school for the actual period for time the function is occurring;

e.     In any area on College property where possession of a firearm is prohibited by State or federal law.

I am attending a private function at a WVNCC location that is being rented, leased or designated for the exclusive use of that private entity. How will I know if concealed pistols or revolvers are permitted?
a.    It is up to the private entity to provide information about the concealed carry allowances. If they do not permit concealed carry signs will be posted.

 I work in a “sole occupancy” office, what do I need to do to prohibit concealed carry by others in my office?

a.     If you wish to request sticker for the outside of your office, submit a request using the link: https://forms.office.com/r/AGuNyL3Kyh

 Can faculty put a statement in their syllabus about their office being a no carry zone?

a.     Faculty syllabi statements are available from the VPL and in the syllabus template.

 If I have a valid concealed carry license, can I carry my pistol or revolver in my backpack?

a.     Yes, if the backpack is always in your sole, close possession. Please note that “concealed” is defined as “hidden from ordinary observation so as to prevent disclosure or recognition.”

Does the College provide lockers or safes for gun storage on campus by College community members?
a.     No.