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HB 217

Assault firearms & certain ammunition feeding devices; purchase, sale, etc., prohibited, penalties.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Elizabeth Bennett-Parker and 24 co-sponsors

Virginia bill prohibits importing, selling, and possessing assault firearms and high-capacity magazines, passing House 58-34 with significant Second Amendment debate.

Fiscal Impact statement From VCSC (4/14/2026 4:33 pm)
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 217

Legislative bill overview

HB 217 prohibits the importation, sale, transfer, and possession of assault firearms and certain high-capacity ammunition feeding devices in Virginia. The bill defines "assault firearm" through specific features and mechanics, and establishes criminal penalties for violations. It has passed the House with a 58-34 vote.

Why this is important

This represents a significant expansion of Virginia's firearms regulations, potentially affecting gun owners, retailers, and manufacturers operating in the state. The law would make Virginia one of the more restrictive states regarding modern rifle ownership and could impact an estimated hundreds of thousands of firearm owners depending on how "assault firearm" is defined in the final text.

Potential points of contention

  • Second Amendment concerns: Opponents argue restrictions on commonly-owned firearms infringe constitutional rights, while supporters contend reasonable regulations are constitutional
  • Enforcement and compliance: Unclear how existing lawful owners transition, whether grandfathering applies, and how importation/sales bans are enforced at borders and retailers
  • Definition precision: "Assault firearm" definitions are contentious—features-based approaches can capture firearms used for legal hunting and sport shooting, leading to disputes over legislative intent versus practical application

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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