Virginia Lawmakers Push Some New Draconian Gun Control Measures

Virginia lawmakers are moving quickly to advance a broad package of gun control legislation ahead of the 2026 General Assembly session, signaling a dramatic shift in firearms policy in the Commonwealth. Buoyed by a newly elected Democratic governor backed by major national gun-control groups, legislators have prefiled nearly a dozen bills that would significantly expand restrictions on Second Amendment rights.

Although the legislative session does not officially begin until next week, the scope and speed of these proposals have already drawn strong reactions from gun owners, industry groups, and civil liberties advocates.

Proposed Ban on “Assault Firearms”

One of the most far-reaching proposals is House Bill 271, which would ban the importation, sale, and manufacture of so-called “assault firearms” and magazines capable of holding more than ten rounds. Under the bill, violations could result in up to 12 months in jail and fines of as much as $2,500.

Critics argue that the bill uses vague and expansive definitions that could encompass a wide range of commonly owned firearms, effectively criminalizing law-abiding Virginians overnight.

New $500 Tax on Suppressors

Another controversial proposal, House Bill 207, would impose a new $500 state tax on firearm suppressors at the retail level. This move comes immediately after the longstanding federal $200 tax on suppressors was eliminated, leading opponents to characterize the measure as an attempt to reintroduce financial barriers through state law.

Gun rights advocates argue that suppressors are safety devices that reduce noise exposure and should not be singled out for punitive taxation.

Expanded Liability for the Firearms Industry

Several bills would dramatically expand legal exposure for firearm manufacturers, distributors, and retailers. Senate Bill 27 and House Bill 21 establish new standards of “responsible conduct” for the firearms industry, requiring businesses to adopt undefined “reasonable controls” over manufacturing, sales, and marketing practices.

The proposals also create broad civil liability, allowing lawsuits by the Attorney General, local governments, or private individuals. Critics warn these measures are designed to overwhelm the industry with litigation, effectively regulating it out of existence despite longstanding federal protections.

New Prohibited Person Expansions

Additional legislation would broaden who can lose firearm rights under Virginia law. Senate Bill 38 and House Bill 93 extend prohibited-person restrictions to individuals living in the same household as someone who is prohibited, raising concerns that lawful gun owners could lose their rights based solely on another person’s conduct or status.

Other measures would expand prohibiting categories for certain misdemeanor offenses and impose new limits on firearm storage and transport.

Threats to Reciprocity and Self-Defense

Several bills could directly affect lawful concealed carry holders. House Bill 24 jeopardizes Virginia’s concealed handgun reciprocity agreements with other states, potentially limiting where permit holders may legally carry while traveling.

House Bill 110 would further restrict the ability of law-abiding citizens to keep a firearm in their vehicle for self-defense, a provision that critics say undermines personal safety rather than enhancing it.

Crackdown on Homemade Firearms

House Bill 40 would end the long-standing practice of building firearms for personal use by prohibiting the manufacture and possession of unserialized firearms. The bill would also penalize individuals who lawfully purchased unfinished frames or receivers prior to the bill’s effective date, raising retroactivity and due process concerns.

Political Backing and Advocacy Response

Much of the momentum behind the legislative push is tied to recent electoral wins supported by national gun-control organizations. Groups such as Everytown for Gun Safety invested heavily in Virginia’s 2025 elections, including a reported $1 million media campaign supporting Governor-elect Abigail Spanberger and $400,000 backing key legislative races. As a result, a significant portion of the Democratic majority in the House now includes Moms Demand Action volunteers.

In response, gun rights organizations are mobilizing. The Virginia Citizens Defense League has scheduled its annual Lobby Day for January 19, 2026, giving constituents an opportunity to speak directly with lawmakers. Gun Owners of America has also launched an online campaign encouraging Virginians to contact their delegates and state senators.

A Pivotal Moment for Virginia

With multiple sweeping proposals moving simultaneously, the 2026 legislative session could mark a turning point for gun rights in Virginia. Supporters of the bills argue they are necessary public safety measures, while opponents warn they represent an unprecedented expansion of government control over lawful firearm ownership.

As debate intensifies, all eyes will be on Richmond to see how far lawmakers are willing to go—and how Virginians respond.

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