Creating WV Guardian Program

SB 209 creates the West Virginia Guardian Program, allowing county school boards to contract with retired law enforcement officers (veterans, state troopers, or deputy sheriffs) to provide security on public school grounds. These "West Virginia Guardians" must meet strict requirements, including proof of U.S. citizenship, high school/GED education, concealed carry training, background checks, and passing a fitness and drug screening. The program explicitly states Guardians cannot make arrests (they are not law enforcement) and excludes individuals with dishonorable discharges, certain criminal convictions (like domestic violence or drug offenses), or recent illegal drug use. The bill aims to enhance school safety by authorizing trained retired officers to address threats like violence, bullying, or weapons on campus.