by David Hawkins
Dozens of sheriffs and prosecutors in Virginia are refusing to enforce a sweeping new gun control law that bans the sale and possession of certain semiautomatic firearms and magazines.
The law was passed earlier this year by Virginia’s Democratic Party-controlled General Assembly and signed in May by Democrat Gov. Abigail Spanberger.
The measure, often described as an assault weapons ban, restricts the importation, sale, manufacture, purchase, and transfer of certain semiautomatic firearms.
The law applies to firearms with specific features, including detachable magazines and folding or telescoping stocks.
It also bans magazines capable of holding more than 15 rounds.
The restrictions cover many popular semiautomatic rifles, including the AR-15.
Local Officials Say Law Violates Constitutional Protections
Violations of the new law are classified as Class 1 misdemeanors.
Those convicted could face up to 12 months in jail and fines of up to $2,500.
The law includes a grandfathering provision that allows Virginians who legally possessed covered firearms or magazines before the July 1, 2026, effective date to keep them.
It also includes limited exceptions for inheritance, transfers to immediate family members, sales to licensed dealers, and certain out-of-state transfers where allowed by other jurisdictions.
However, officials in several Virginia localities have said they do not intend to enforce or prosecute violations under the new provisions.