Virginia House Bill HB2070

Virginia 2023 Regular Session

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

Caption

Firearms; purchase, etc., following an assault and battery against person in dating relationship.

Impact

If enacted, HB2070 will significantly impact regulations surrounding firearm ownership in cases of domestic violence. Specifically, it will increase the restrictions on individuals who have been convicted of relevant misdemeanors, permanently enhancing penalties for violations post-conviction. By defining 'dating relationships' and 'family or household members' within the bill, the legislation clarifies who is protected under these new laws, aiming to reinforce the connection between intimate partner violence and gun possession.

Summary

House Bill 2070 seeks to amend Virginia law concerning the purchase, possession, or transportation of firearms by individuals following specific misdemeanor convictions for assault and battery. The bill introduces new provisions that would make it a Class 1 misdemeanor for any individual to knowingly purchase or transport firearms after having been convicted of assaulting a family or household member or someone in a dating relationship. The legislation aims to close gaps in firearm access that may exist due to previous domestic violence offenses, thereby enhancing public safety.

Contention

The bill has sparked discussions regarding the balance between public safety and individual rights. Proponents argue that the legislation is a critical step towards protecting victims of domestic violence by preventing potential harm through firearm possession by offenders. However, opponents are concerned about the implications for civil liberties and argue that the bill could unjustly penalize individuals long after their convictions, especially for minor offenses. The debate centers on finding the right balance between ensuring safety and maintaining fair legal treatment for all individuals.

Notable_points

Additionally, the bill sets forth a structured timeline for prohibiting firearm possession, allowing for the potential restoration of firearm rights after three years if no further disqualifying convictions occur. This aspect of HB2070 aims to provide a pathway for rehabilitation while maintaining protections for individuals subject to previous domestic violence convictions, fostering a more nuanced approach to firearm ownership.