Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger signed a series of gun control bills into law on April 10, following the state General Assembly's regular session. The legislation includes a ban on so-called 'ghost guns,' a law expanding liability for gun manufacturers and dealers, and measures concerning firearm possession by individuals under court orders.
Core Developments
- Ghost Gun Ban: The new law prohibits the sale, manufacture, and possession of untraceable firearms, often referred to as 'ghost guns.'
- Manufacturer Liability: A new measure allows victims of gun violence to sue manufacturers and dealers for negligent business practices that contribute to such incidents.
Deeper Context
Domestic Violence Restrictions
A bipartisan-backed bill closes the 'intimate partner loophole,' prohibiting significant others of individuals charged with misdemeanor domestic violence from possessing firearms. Another law clarifies how individuals subject to protective orders or domestic violence convictions can transfer firearms they are no longer legally allowed to possess.
Opposing Views
Gun rights activists, including Philip Van Cleave of the Virginia Citizens Defense League, argue that the liability law could lead to frivolous lawsuits against not just manufacturers but also accessory sellers. Van Cleave claims the legislation will deter businesses from operating in Virginia without improving public safety.
Broader Implications
The new laws are part of a broader push by Virginia Democrats to strengthen gun control measures. The bills were among more than two dozen gun-related measures sent to the governor after the legislative session ended on March 24.