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HB 19

Firearms; purchase, etc., after assault & battery of family or household member or intimate partner.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Elizabeth Bennett-Parker and 12 co-sponsors

Virginia bill bans firearm purchases for those convicted of domestic assault and battery against family or intimate partners, expanding domestic violence restrictions beyond federal law.

Acts of Assembly Chapter text (CHAP0527)
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Bill Summary · HB 19

Legislative bill overview

HB 19 prohibits individuals convicted of assault and battery against a family or household member or intimate partner from purchasing firearms. The bill creates a state-level firearm restriction tied to domestic violence convictions, adding restrictions beyond federal law which typically applies to those convicted of domestic violence misdemeanors.

Why is this important

Domestic violence is often a precursor to lethal outcomes; studies show access to firearms significantly increases homicide risk in domestic disputes. This bill addresses a policy gap by extending firearm restrictions to state-level domestic violence convictions, potentially preventing weapons access for individuals with demonstrated capacity for intimate partner violence.

Potential points of contention

  • Constitutional concerns: Second Amendment advocates may challenge restrictions on firearm purchases as overly broad or insufficiently tailored, particularly if the bill lacks grandfather clauses or appeal mechanisms
  • Scope definition: Disagreement over what constitutes "assault and battery" (misdemeanor vs. felony charges) and whether the restriction applies indefinitely or has time limits could create implementation challenges
  • Enforcement mechanisms: Questions about how background check systems will flag these convictions and whether other states' convictions will be captured in Virginia's system

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

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