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SB 173

Weapons; possession prohibited in hospital that provides mental health or developmental services.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Angelia Graves

Virginia bill bans weapons possession inside hospitals offering mental health or developmental services to reduce violence risk in vulnerable care settings.

Substitute bill reprinted 26110156D
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Bill Summary · SB 173

Legislative bill overview

SB 173 prohibits individuals from possessing weapons inside hospital facilities that provide mental health or developmental services in Virginia. The bill creates a weapons-free zone in these specific healthcare settings to enhance safety for vulnerable patients and staff.

Why is this important

Mental health facilities treat patients in crisis situations where weapon presence could escalate incidents and increase risk of harm. This policy reflects a nationwide trend of restricting weapons in healthcare settings, though implementation raises questions about enforcement mechanisms and exceptions for security personnel.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition and scope: Unclear whether the prohibition applies to all weapons (firearms, knives, etc.) or specific types, and how broadly "hospital that provides mental health or developmental services" is defined
  • Security personnel exemptions: No indication whether law enforcement, security staff, or healthcare workers are exempted, creating potential operational complications
  • Enforcement challenges: Difficult to monitor compliance at hospital entrances without security screening infrastructure, and unclear what penalties apply to violators

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

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