Fairmont State begins preparations for campus carry law
FAIRMONT, W.Va. – West Virginia’s public universities, including WVU and Fairmont State, are gearing up for the implementation of the new campus carry law, set to take effect on July 1. The Campus Self-Defense Act was signed into law by Governor Jim Justice during the 2023 legislative session, granting individuals with a valid concealed carry license the right to carry a concealed pistol or revolver on campuses and in buildings of higher education centers in West Virginia.
Fairmont State University is actively preparing for the new law by conducting surveys and seeking input from the campus community. To ensure smooth implementation, Fairmont State’s President, Dr. Mike Davis, has formed a Campus Carry Committee comprised of 14 members, including students, faculty, staff, and representatives from campus and mental health services. The committee aims to remain neutral on the issue.
Brian Selmeski, Fairmont State’s Chief of Staff, emphasized the committee’s objective of prioritizing safety for all individuals on campus. Selmeski stated, We are cognizant of the fact that some students will have strong feelings one way, some students will have strong feelings the other way. This will be an ideologically neutral response that we provide. Our goal is not to change anybody’s mind, our goal is to make sure all of our students, faculty, and staff feel safe and are safe.
While the new law permits concealed firearms in public university spaces, certain limitations apply. Organized events held at stadiums, arenas, or venues with a capacity of 1,000 or more may ban the carrying of concealed firearms. University daycare facilities are also exempt from the campus carry law.
The Campus Carry Committee is expected to present its recommendations to President Davis next month. Once the recommendations are received, President Davis plans to gather further input, engage with his team, and proceed with the necessary implementation and communication strategies. As part of these efforts, the university will install additional signage throughout the campus to inform individuals of areas where carrying firearms is either permitted or prohibited according to the law.
With a commitment to ensuring student safety and addressing potential concerns, Fairmont State University is proactively navigating the upcoming changes driven by the campus carry law. By incorporating feedback via surveys and involving various stakeholders in the decision-making process, the university aims to create an environment that instills confidence and offers appropriate measures of protection.
In conclusion, as West Virginia’s public universities prepare for the implementation of the campus carry law, Fairmont State University is taking proactive steps to address the controversial issue. By establishing a Campus Carry Committee, conducting surveys, and obtaining campus input, the university is striving to ensure the safety and well-being of all its students, faculty, and staff members. Through ongoing efforts and open communication channels, Fairmont State aims to create an inclusive environment that prioritizes individual safety while adhering to the new law’s regulations.
