Gov. Spanberger’s amendments cement broad infringements on firearms — expanding bans, age limits, and legal liability for gun makers
In a crushing blow to liberty-loving patriots, Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger has signed or amended a sweeping package of Second Amendment infringements that dramatically reshapes gun laws across the Commonwealth.
One part of the legislative package, HB 217/SB 749, passed by the General Assembly defined an “assault weapon” as a semi-automatic centerfire rifle or pistol with a fixed magazine capacity over 15 rounds.
The Governor stripped the word “fixed,” meaning any semi-auto that has a magazine capable of holding more than 15 rounds is now an “assault firearm.”
Therefore, the sale, manufacture, and transfer of these “assault firearms” will be prohibited, though some previously owned guns may be grandfathered in under limited exceptions.
Lawmakers also approved raising the minimum age to purchase certain firearms to 21, further restricting access for young adults.
In addition, the package opens the door for lawsuits against gun manufacturers and dealers, allowing them to be held liable for criminal misconduct with their firearms.
Furthermore, Spanberger has signed HB901/SB495 – which is an expansion of the “Red Flag” law.
The expansion includes various mental health professionals, doctors, designees of local community services boards, immediate family/household members, intimate partners, school administrators or superintendent/superintendent designee.
A massive expansion in who can facilitate a confiscation order, and have someone’s firearms seized without a trial.
Previously, it was limited to an attorney for the Commonwealth or a law enforcement officer.
With Spanberger’s signature on this package, the new laws are expected to take effect later this year, marking one of the most aggressive state-level gun control overhauls in recent history.
Read more at Virginia Mercury.
