Richmond, Virginia—Democratic members of the Senate Judiciary Committee worked to protect our progress once again, this time on gun rights. They rejected several bills that would make our community less safe. 

“We are grateful to members of the Senate Judiciary Committee for rejecting these irresponsible gun bills. We are all safer when we have strong gun laws that prevent guns from getting into the hands of people who can’t be trusted with a dangerous weapon,” LaTwyla Mathias, Executive Director of Progress Virginia, said, “All of us have the right to feel safe in our communities, and increasing access to guns does the opposite. 

Background:

Virginia voters support 94 – 5 percent requiring background checks for all gun buyers, including 90 – 8 percent among Republicans.

SB61 would have allowed certain groups of people, including retired law enforcement officers and judges, to carry a concealed weapon. It was passed by indefinitely on a 8-7 vote. 

SB644 would have allowed people to sell guns without a background check to people with a concealed carry permit. It was passed by indefinitely on a vote of 9-6. 

SB74 would have allowed people to carry guns in public spaces such as parks and government buildings. It was passed by indefinitely on a vote of 9-6. 

SB330 would have allowed people to carry a concealed weapon without a concealed carry permit. It was passed by indefinitely on a vote of 8-6. 

SB364 would have allowed unlimited gun purchases repealing the restriction on buying more than one gun a month. It was passed by indefinitely on a vote of 8-6.