WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 871

Firearms; storage in residence where minor or person prohibited from possessing is present, penalty.

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

Virginia legislation requires secure firearm storage in homes with minors or prohibited persons present, imposing penalties for violations to reduce accidental access and deaths.

Governor's recommendation received by House
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 871

Legislative bill overview

HB 871 requires Virginia residents to securely store firearms in homes where minors or persons prohibited from possessing firearms are present. The bill establishes penalties for violations, creating a new legal obligation for gun owners regarding firearm storage practices.

Why this is important

Unintentional firearm access by minors and prohibited individuals is a significant public safety concern linked to accidental deaths, suicides, and criminal use. This legislation attempts to reduce these incidents through mandatory secure storage requirements, affecting an estimated hundreds of thousands of Virginia households with both firearms and minors.

Potential points of contention

  • Second Amendment interpretation: Opponents argue mandatory storage requirements impose an unconstitutional burden on firearm ownership rights, while supporters contend reasonable regulations are constitutionally permissible
  • Enforcement and privacy concerns: Questions about how violations would be detected and enforced without intrusive home inspections, and whether police need warrants to verify compliance
  • Feasibility and compliance costs: Debate over whether secure storage (gun safes, locks) creates economic barriers to ownership and what penalty levels are appropriate for non-compliance

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

Sign in to ask a question.