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Bill

HB 926

Outdoor shooting of firearm on property without reasonable care; prohibition, penalty.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Alfonso Lopez

Virginia bill banning firearm discharge on residential property without reasonable care, establishing penalties for negligent shooting endangering others or structures.

Continued to next session in Counties, Cities and Towns (Voice Vote)
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Bill Summary · HB 926

Legislative bill overview

HB 926 would prohibit the discharge of firearms on residential property without exercising reasonable care for the safety of others and nearby structures. The bill establishes penalties for violations and aims to reduce risks associated with negligent firearm use in populated or semi-populated areas.

Why is this important

As Virginia communities continue to develop, properties that were once rural become closer to neighbors, schools, and infrastructure. This bill addresses a genuine safety gap where firearm discharge on one's own land could endanger adjacent residents without legal recourse unless actual injury occurs. It reflects tension between property rights and public safety in increasingly dense suburban areas.

Potential points of contention

  • Property rights vs. public safety: Rural and suburban landowners may argue the bill restricts legitimate shooting activities on their own property, while public safety advocates contend reasonable care standards are necessary
  • Vague "reasonable care" standard: The bill's enforceability depends on how courts define "reasonable care," which could lead to inconsistent application and litigation over borderline cases
  • Rural vs. urban impact: The law may be applied differently in areas where shooting is traditional practice versus densely-settled neighborhoods, raising concerns about unequal enforcement

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

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