Virginia lawmakers are launching into another high-stakes firearms showdown this session, with Democrats using their control of state government to revive long-sought gun restrictions—while Republicans counter with a proposal framed as affordability and access for lawful permit holders.
The most divisive measure is House Bill 217, reintroduced by Del. Dan Helmer, D-Fairfax. The bill would ban the importation, sale, manufacture, purchase and transfer of assault firearms and large-capacity ammunition feeding devices, with limited exceptions. Violations would be Class 1 misdemeanors, and a conviction would trigger a three-year ban on firearm possession. The proposal also prohibits anyone under 21 from possessing or transferring an assault firearm.
Democrats are expected to frame HB 217 as a public safety push, arguing the targeted firearms have been used in mass shootings and other high-profile attacks. Opponents argue the bill criminalizes lawful ownership, sweeps in common rifles and magazines, and raises constitutional questions as national courts continue tightening standards for gun regulations. With full Democratic control in Richmond, the bill’s path may depend less on Republican opposition and more on whether Democrats stay unified—and whether the new governor signs it.
Democrats are also advancing Senate Bill 27, sponsored by Sen. Jennifer Carroll Foy, D-Prince William, which would establish standards of responsible conduct for firearm industry members and require safeguards intended to prevent unlawful sales and misuse. Critics warn the measure opens the door to politically motivated litigation that could punish lawful businesses and function as regulation-through-lawsuits. (RELATED: Robots Are Filling Prescriptions for Richmond Pharmacies as Virginia Approves New Rules)
Republicans, meanwhile, are pitching a narrower gun policy change through House Bill 106, sponsored by Del. Jason Ballard, R-Giles. The bill would lower fees charged by local law enforcement for processing concealed handgun permit applications. Supporters argue high fees can become a barrier for law-abiding residents seeking to exercise a constitutional right. Opponents counter that the fees help cover administrative and staffing costs, and that cutting revenue could force local agencies to absorb expenses or divert resources from other public safety priorities.
Together, the proposals reflect sharply different approaches: Democrats seeking tighter restrictions and expanded enforcement tools, and Republicans pressing for lower costs tied to legal gun ownership. With gun policy expected to dominate committee fights and lobbying pressure, these bills could define the session’s most partisan clash. (RELATED: Virginia Democrats Enter Session With Big Agenda, Four Amendments, and Budget Uncertainty)