Virginia Lawmakers Propose Sweeping Gun Restrictions

Legislation would target firearm industry, expand red flag laws, and impose new taxes on gun owners

Jan. 28, 2026 at 6:07pm

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Virginia lawmakers have introduced a series of bills that would significantly restrict gun ownership and the firearm industry in the state. The proposed legislation includes a new law that would allow private lawsuits against gun-related businesses, expanded red flag laws to allow more people to petition for firearm confiscation orders, bans on popular firearms and magazines, and new taxes on suppressors and ammunition.

Why it matters

These measures are seen as a calculated attack on the lawful firearm industry and the Second Amendment rights of Virginia residents. If enacted, the laws could drive gun manufacturers and dealers out of business through a flood of lawsuits, while also making it more difficult and expensive for law-abiding citizens to own and use firearms.

The details

The centerpiece of the legislative package is Virginia Senate Bill 27, which would create new "standards of responsible conduct" for the firearm industry. This would allow the state attorney general, local prosecutors, and private individuals to sue gun-related businesses over perceived violations, even if criminals misuse their products. The bill is designed to get around federal protections for the gun industry under the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act. Other proposals include expanding red flag laws, banning certain firearms and magazines, and imposing new taxes on suppressors and ammunition.

  • The bills have been introduced in the current 2026 legislative session in Richmond.
  • If passed, the new laws could take effect as early as July 1, 2026.

The players

Virginia Senate Bill 27

Legislation that would create new "standards of responsible conduct" for the firearm industry, exposing gun-related businesses to a flood of lawsuits.

Matt Platkin

The Attorney General of New Jersey, who has targeted gun companies such as Glock in an effort to gain political points and harm the industry.

Bloomberg-funded anti-gun movement

A reference to the gun control advocacy efforts supported by former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg.

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What they’re saying

“Their actions leave no question that the aim is not public safety, but political control. And what they cannot ban outright, they plan to destroy through red tape and lawsuits.”

— John Commerford, NRA representative

What’s next

The proposed legislation still needs to pass the Virginia General Assembly and be signed into law by the governor. Gun rights advocates are expected to mount legal challenges to any new restrictions that are enacted.

The takeaway

The sweeping gun control measures being considered in Virginia represent a significant threat to the rights of law-abiding gun owners and the firearm industry in the state. If enacted, these laws could make it much more difficult and expensive for Virginians to exercise their Second Amendment rights.