Virginia Democrats Advance Sweeping Gun Control Measures to Governor's Desk

Virginia's Democratic-led General Assembly passed a series of gun control bills on March 12, 2026, including a ban on assault-style weapons and high-capacity magazines, sending them to Gov. Abigail Spanberger for consideration.

The flagship legislation, House Bill 217 and Senate Bill 749, prohibits the sale, manufacture, import, or transfer of assault firearms and magazines holding more than 15 rounds starting July 1, 2026. Assault firearms are defined to include semi-automatic center-fire pistols with magazines exceeding 15 rounds, rifles with detachable magazines, and weapons with features like collapsible stocks or threaded barrels. Violations would be a Class 1 misdemeanor, with no retroactive penalties for existing owners.

The House approved HB 217 by a 77-28 vote, with two Democrats supporting and one Republican opposing. The Senate passed SB 749 27-12, with all Republicans except Sen. Alexis Calatayud (R-Miami) voting no.

Other measures include Senate Bill 348/House Bill 871 mandating secure firearm storage in homes with minors or prohibited persons, a Class 4 misdemeanor violation. Senate Bill 272/House Bill 626 bans firearms in public higher education buildings. Senate Bill 27/House Bill 21 imposes civil liability on the firearms industry for failing to implement "reasonable controls." House Bill 40/Senate Bill 323 bans unserialized "ghost guns." Senate Bill 115 tightens concealed handgun permit reciprocity. House Bill 201 requires schools to notify parents annually on safe storage laws.

Democrats, holding majorities since 2025, argue the bills address gun violence. Sen. Saddam Salim (D-Dunn Loring) said: "There are so many assault weapons in circulation." Republicans oppose, citing Second Amendment violations and vulnerability to lawsuits. Sen. Bill Stanley Jr. (R-Rocky Mount) remarked: "If we were the problem, you would know about it." Sen. Bryce Reeves (R-Orange) criticized Democrats' understanding of firearms.