SGA holds Campus Forum to Discuss Campus Self-Defense Act
Colleges and universities across the state continue to prepare for implementation
of the “The Campus Self-Defense Act" (sometimes called the "Campus Carry Bill"), which
goes into effect July 1, 2024. The bill was passed by the West Virginia Legislature
in 2023.
Fairmont State University’s Student Government Association (SGA) held an open forum on May 1 to give students and other campus constituents an opportunity to learn more about the law, where Fairmont State is in its implementation process, and what changes will take place on July 1.
“Fairmont State is a big supporter of students being able to express their opinions and ask questions about campus issues,” said SGA President Ashton Louden. “This forum is another opportunity for our students to get involved, ask questions about important topics, and be involved in the process.”
The Forum panel consisted of President Mike Davis, Campus Carry Committee Co-Chair Spencer Flanagan, and Louden. The trio took questions from more than 100 students in attendance.
The policy is now posted for the required 30-day public comment period and may be viewed“The question isn’t how we feel about this particular law, but how we react to it,” said President Davis. “One of the most important things is how we behave toward each other. There are many different views on Campus Carry, and people need to understand that not everyone agreed with the passage of the law. I hope those who decide to carry a gun on campus try to understand when someone is uncomfortable or nervous. We all have to live on this campus together.”
Davis established the Fairmont State Campus Carry Committee in fall 2023. Made up of 14 students, staff, and faculty from across campus, the
committee’s charge was to research and then make recommendations to the president
regarding relevant policies and procedures.
You can view the committee’s recommendations here.
The Fairmont State University Board of Governors then held a special meeting on Monday, April 29, 2024, and approved a new policy, Policy GA-08, “Rule Regarding the Campus Self-defense Act.”
The policy is now posted for the required 30-day public comment period and may be viewed online. If you have comments to offer regarding the policy, please submit those to publiccomment@fairmontstate.edu by Wednesday, May 29, 2024, at 12:00 a.m. EST.
To stay updated on new information please visit, the Campus Carry webpage.
