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SB 1397

Firearms, stun weapons, etc.; possession or transportation by persons adjudicated delinquent.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Mark Peake

Virginia bill restricting firearm and weapon possession by juveniles adjudicated delinquent, raising concerns about permanent civil rights consequences for minors.

Passed by indefinitely in Courts of Justice (8-Y 6-N)
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Bill Summary · SB 1397

Legislative bill overview

SB 1397 would restrict the possession and transportation of firearms, stun weapons, and related weapons by individuals who have been adjudicated delinquent (found guilty in juvenile court). The bill appears designed to prevent minors with delinquency adjudications from accessing certain weapons, with exceptions likely included for specific circumstances.

Why is this important

Juvenile delinquency adjudications affect thousands of young Virginians annually, and weapons restrictions could significantly impact their future rights and opportunities. This raises questions about rehabilitation, second chances, and the permanent consequences of juvenile justice system involvement on adult civil liberties.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of "adjudicated delinquent": Whether the restriction applies to all delinquency findings or only specific offenses (violent crimes, weapons offenses, etc.), and whether it applies permanently or expires at adulthood
  • Second chances and rehabilitation: Tension between public safety concerns and allowing rehabilitated juveniles to regain rights as adults
  • Intersection with federal law: Potential conflicts with existing federal firearms restrictions on convicted felons and how juvenile adjudications align with federal definitions

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

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