Senators advanced legislation allowing 18- to 20-year-olds carry a concealed weapon without a permit.
Senate Bill 30 would effectively standardize concealed carry regulations across all age groups of legal adulthood within the state. Much of the bill just strikes out what have been limitations placed on gun owners aged 18 to 20.
The Senate Judiciary Committee discussed the bill for about 45 minutes on Tuesday afternoon before advancing it. The bill now goes to the full Senate.
“It’s important to extend 2nd Amendment rights to all adult West Virginians,” said Senator Kevan Bartlett, R-Kanawha.
Under the bill, 18- to 20-year-olds would no longer face criminal penalties for carrying a hidden weapon without a provisional license. The bill outlines specific legal prohibitions that still apply, such as restrictions for those with certain criminal convictions, substance addictions or mental health adjudications.
Senator Jay Taylor, R-Taylor, praised the bill for its consistent treatment for people considered to be of adult status.
“We’re asking people who can vote, go die for our country in the military — but we’re not going to allow them to be able to protect themselves?” Taylor said.
Art Thom, representing the West Virginia Citizens Defense League, responded during testimony: “I think this is the only constitutional right that we have that there’s a difference in age. Every other one is 18 years old.”
Taylor followed up by commenting, “I think having more people out there who are responsibly carrying makes for a safer society.”
Dr. James McJunkin, representing the West Virginia chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics, spoke against the bill, saying he is concerned about expansion.
McJunkin said it would be sensible to maintain the permitting process under current law, providing for a background check and safety training for concealed carry for the younger age group.
“Adolescents and young adults are uniquely at risk for firearm related injuries and death,” he said. “Ongoing neurodevelopment, increased impulsivity and higher rates of suicide and unintentional injury all contribute to making this an especially high risk age group for firearm related injury or death.”