Bill > HB2425

This bill modifies West Virginia's firearm carry laws to lower the minimum age for concealed carry from 21 to 18 years old, effectively implementing "Constitutional Carry" for young adults. The bill changes multiple sections of existing law to allow individuals 18 years and older to carry a concealed deadly weapon without a provisional license, provided they are United States citizens or legal residents and are not otherwise prohibited from possessing firearms (such as those with certain criminal convictions or mental health restrictions). The legislation maintains penalties for improper weapon possession, with first-time offenders facing potential fines of $100-$1,000 and up to 12 months in jail, and subsequent offenses potentially resulting in felony charges with 1-5 years in prison and $1,000-$5,000 in fines. Additionally, the bill preserves existing exemptions from licensing fees for certain judicial officers and prosecutors and retains prohibitions on firearm possession for individuals with specific legal or mental health disqualifications. By reducing the age requirement, the bill expands gun carry rights for young adults while maintaining key safety restrictions.

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http://www.wvlegislature.gov/Bill_Status/Bills_history.cfm?input=2425&year=2025&sessiontype=RS&btype=bill