West Virginia enacts Alyssa's law requiring panic alert systems in all schools

The West Virginia State Legislature has introduced House Bill 2394, aimed at enhancing school safety through the implementation of a wearable panic alert system known as Alyssa's Law. This bill, introduced on March 19, 2025, mandates that all schools in the state adopt this technology to improve emergency response capabilities.

The primary objective of House Bill 2394 is to establish a standardized panic alert system across West Virginia schools. The proposed legislation requires the state board, in collaboration with the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management, to develop rules for the system by December 31, 2025. The wearable devices will enable school staff to quickly contact local emergency services and initiate campus-wide lockdowns in the event of a crisis.

Key provisions of the bill include the requirement for each county board to provide panic alert devices to all school personnel and ensure that they receive training on their use before the start of each school year. Additionally, the bill stipulates that security data from school facilities, such as surveillance camera feeds and access control maps, must be accessible to local law enforcement agencies to facilitate coordinated responses during emergencies.

The introduction of this bill has sparked discussions among lawmakers and education advocates regarding its potential impact on school safety. Proponents argue that the implementation of such a system could significantly reduce response times during emergencies, potentially saving lives. However, some critics have raised concerns about the costs associated with the devices and training, as well as the implications for student privacy and data security.

As the bill progresses through the legislative process, its significance lies in its potential to reshape safety protocols in West Virginia schools. If passed, House Bill 2394 could serve as a model for other states looking to enhance school safety measures. The next steps will involve committee reviews and potential amendments before a final vote is taken.