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Bill

SB 848

Firearms, certain; age requirement for purchase, penalty.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Saddam Salim

Virginia bill to raise firearm purchase age requirements was vetoed by Governor and veto sustained; reflects disagreement on youth gun access policy.

Senate sustained Governor's veto
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 848

Legislative bill overview

SB 848 would establish or modify age requirements for firearm purchases in Virginia, imposing penalties for violations of these age restrictions. The bill was passed by the legislature but was vetoed by the Governor on March 25, 2025, and that veto was subsequently sustained by the Senate on April 2, 2025.

Why is this important

Age restrictions on firearm purchases are a significant public safety policy tool intended to reduce youth access to weapons. The veto and its sustainment indicate fundamental disagreement between the legislative and executive branches regarding appropriate age thresholds or implementation mechanisms for firearm regulations.

Potential points of contention

  • Whether the proposed age requirement adequately balances Second Amendment rights with public safety concerns around youth firearm access
  • The scope and severity of penalties for violations and whether they apply to sellers, youth, or both
  • Whether the age threshold aligns with federal law or creates state-level restrictions that differ from existing regulations

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

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