WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SB 891

Firearms; five day waiting period, penalty.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Ghazala Hashmi and 4 co-sponsors

Virginia's SB 891 would have mandated a five-day firearm purchase waiting period but was vetoed by the Governor and the veto was sustained, preventing enactment.

Senate sustained Governor's veto
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 891

Legislative bill overview

SB 891 would have imposed a mandatory five-day waiting period between firearm purchase and receipt in Virginia, with exceptions for certain circumstances. The bill was vetoed by the Governor in March 2025 and that veto was sustained by the Senate in April 2025, meaning the legislation did not become law.

Why is this important

Waiting period laws are a contentious firearms policy tool intended to reduce impulsive violence and allow time for background check processes. Virginia's action on this bill reflects broader national debates about balancing Second Amendment rights with public safety measures, particularly regarding suicide and domestic violence prevention.

Potential points of contention

  • Constitutional questions: Opponents argue waiting periods infringe on Second Amendment rights and the right to immediate self-defense, while supporters cite state authority to regulate commerce in firearms
  • Public safety effectiveness: Disagreement exists over whether five-day waiting periods meaningfully reduce gun deaths, with research showing mixed results depending on methodology and context
  • Exception criteria: Disputes likely arose over which circumstances (law enforcement, military, concealed carry permit holders) should be exempted and how broadly exemptions should be defined

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

Sign in to ask a question.