Virginia House Bill HB1788

Virginia 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/10/23
• Refer: 1/10/23

Caption

Firearms; sale or transfer, microstamping-enabled firearms, penalties.

Impact

If enacted, the bill will amend the Code of Virginia by adding new provisions regarding the penalties for selling non-microstamping-enabled firearms. Dealers who sell such firearms will face a Class 3 misdemeanor for the first offense, escalating to a Class 1 misdemeanor for subsequent violations. Additionally, it will be unlawful to modify microstamping-enabled firearms in a way that prevents the production of a microstamp. This is significant as it will impact how firearms are manufactured and sold within the state, potentially leading to greater accountability among dealers and manufacturers.

Summary

House Bill 1788 aims to regulate the sale and transfer of firearms by mandating that any firearm sold or transferred must be a microstamping-enabled firearm. Microstamping refers to a unique code that identifies the make, model, and serial number of a firearm and is intended to provide an additional layer of traceability for law enforcement. This bill not only aims to enhance public safety but also seeks to close loopholes that currently exist in the regulation of firearm sales in Virginia.

Contention

There are varied opinions surrounding HB 1788. Supporters argue that requiring microstamping will significantly assist in reducing gun violence and improve law enforcement's ability to solve crimes involving firearms, enhancing overall public safety. On the contrary, opponents may raise concerns about the legislative overreach into personal rights and the impact on responsible gun owners, suggesting that it imposes unnecessary burdens on dealers and could result in fewer legal firearm options for consumers. Furthermore, the bill does contain a provision exempting firearms manufactured prior to July 1, 2025, which may lead to discussions about its potential effectiveness and the concerns regarding older firearm models.

Last_action

As of January 26, 2023, the House subcommittee recommended laying the bill on the table with a vote of 6-4, indicating some division and contention surrounding the bill's approval.