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Bill

HB 2631

Firearms; purchase, at least five day waiting period, penalty.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Alex Askew and 13 co-sponsors

Virginia bill requiring five-day waiting period for firearm purchases vetoed by Governor; House sustained veto in April 2025, preventing enactment.

House sustained Governor's veto
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Bill Summary · HB 2631

Legislative bill overview

HB 2631 would require a mandatory five-day waiting period between firearm purchase and delivery in Virginia. The bill passed both chambers and was signed by the President (Speaker), but was vetoed by the Governor on March 24, 2025, and the House sustained that veto on April 2, 2025, preventing it from becoming law.

Why is this important

Waiting period legislation aims to reduce impulsive firearm-related deaths, suicides, and domestic violence incidents by creating a cooling-off period. This represents a significant point of contention in the broader national debate over gun policy, touching on constitutional rights, public safety measures, and law enforcement implementation.

Potential points of contention

  • Second Amendment concerns: Opponents argue mandatory waiting periods constitute an undue burden on the constitutional right to bear arms and may disproportionately affect individuals with legitimate self-defense needs
  • Effectiveness debate: Disagreement exists over whether five-day waiting periods meaningfully reduce gun violence versus suicide rates, with research showing mixed results
  • Implementation and enforcement: Questions about how retailers would enforce the requirement, potential exemptions (law enforcement, licensed security), and compliance costs

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

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