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Governor Approves New Changes to Virginia Gun Law

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Governor Terry McAuliffe finalized the new changes to Virginia gun law this week. He signed three pieces of legislation that he feels will dramatically increase public safety.

“The historic bipartisan agreement will make Virginia safer by keeping guns out of the hands of domestic abusers and people who cannot pass background checks,” said Governor McAuliffe. “Virginians elect their leaders to work together to get things done, and today I am proud to say we did just that. This is the most significant step forward on gun safety in 24 years, and I look forward to continuing to work with the General Assembly and the public safety community to build on the progress we made this session.”

This bipartisan agreement with the General Assembly came about after several months of debate, political posturing, and compromises.

According to an announcement from the Governor’s office, the first piece of legislation will require any person subject to a permanent protective order for family abuse to relinquish his or her guns within 24 hours or face a felony charge. The Governor believes that taking guns away from those with a history of domestic abuse will make the public more safe.

The second piece targeted gun show vendors operating without a federal license. Virginia State Police will now attend gun shows and offer background check abilities to vendors, thereby improving the reach of the background check system.

The last piece of legislation deals directly with concealed carry permits.

Governor McAuliffe signed legislation passed by the General Assembly recognizing concealed carry permits issued by other states. This legislation also protects Virginia permit holders carrying concealed in states with reciprocity agreements.

After many months of statements about revoking these reciprocity agreements, it seems that the Governor has finally put the issue to rest.

Virginia law enforcement will continue its practice of recognizing concealed carry permits from other states, and reciprocity agreements are in place for Virginia permit holders outside of Virginia.

To read the news release from the Governor’s Office, click here.

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