Gun ownership is very popular in parts of Virginia, and there are numerous laws around firearms. It’s critical for gun owners to keep up with these laws – and there’s about to be one more.
This spring, Virginia lawmakers passed and Gov. Abigail Spanberger signed a law that places significant restrictions on semi-automatic weapons as well as magazines with a 15-round or greater capacity. That law takes effect on July 1 of this year, so it’s critical for those who own or deal in these firearms to understand the changes.
Some details about the law
The good news for those who already legally own these firearms is that the law likely won’t apply to those weapons they already own. However, in most cases, it will no longer be legal to purchase these weapons and accessories or to manufacture, import, sell or transfer them in Virginia beginning on July 1.
There are some exceptions carved out in the law for:
- Inheriting a weapon
- Transferring a weapon to an immediate family member
- Transferring a weapon to a buyer in another state where it is legal
- Selling a weapon to a licensed firearms dealer
Semi-automatic weapons are the type commonly used in mass shootings. However, many gun owners argue that they’re widely used for legal activities like hunting. Gov. Spanberger says she sought an exception in the law that would have addressed this, but was overruled. She stated, “While the General Assembly chose not to adopt my amendment that specifically carves out certain firearms frequently used for hunting, I will work…to clarify this language.”
Challenges to the law have already begun
The law is already being challenged as unconstitutional. Court cases will proceed even after the law takes effect. Further, several Commonwealth’s Attorneys throughout Virginia have said they won’t be prosecuting people for violating the new law. A violation is considered a Class 1 misdemeanor, and a person could lose their right to have a firearm for three years if convicted.
Even with some prosecutors saying they won’t enforce the new law, it’s still highly unwise for Virginia residents to ignore it, regardless of how strongly they oppose it. Anyone who is facing a weapons charge is wise to get experienced legal guidance as early as possible.
