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Bill

HB 1797

Concealed handgun permits; reciprocity with other states.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Nadarius Clark and 4 co-sponsors

Vetoed bill would have allowed Virginia concealed handgun permit holders to carry firearms in other states recognizing Virginia permits through reciprocity agreements.

House sustained Governor's veto
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1797

Legislative bill overview

HB 1797 would have established reciprocity agreements allowing Virginia concealed handgun permit holders to carry concealed weapons in other states that recognize Virginia permits, and vice versa. The bill was passed by the Virginia legislature but vetoed by the Governor in March 2025, with the veto subsequently sustained by the House in April 2025.

Why is this important

Concealed carry reciprocity directly affects gun owners' legal ability to transport firearms across state lines and impacts interstate travel for millions of Americans. The outcome influences Virginia's relationships with other states' firearms regulations and raises questions about public safety standards and law enforcement coordination across jurisdictions.

Potential points of contention

  • Varying permit standards: Different states have different background check requirements, training standards, and eligibility criteria—reciprocity could allow individuals to carry guns in states with stricter permitting standards than Virginia
  • Public safety coordination: Law enforcement agencies in other states may have concerns about honoring permits issued under different regulatory frameworks without their input or oversight
  • Constitutional vs. regulatory approach: Disagreement over whether reciprocity represents proper interstate cooperation or overrides individual state sovereignty in firearms regulation

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

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