Virginia Senate Bill SB1109

Virginia 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/7/25
• Refer: 1/7/25

Caption

Firearm purchases; permit to purchase a firearm required, penalties.

Impact

By instituting a permit requirement, SB1109 aims to enhance public safety and reduce gun violence. The bill stipulates that licensed firearms dealers are responsible for ensuring that potential buyers present a valid permit before completing any transactions. This change in legislation marks a significant shift towards stricter firearm control in Virginia, potentially affecting the ability for individuals with criminal backgrounds or certain mental health issues to obtain firearms. The law is designed to facilitate better tracking of gun purchases and improve accountability.

Summary

Senate Bill 1109 seeks to reform the process of firearm purchases in Virginia by mandating that individuals obtain a permit prior to making any purchase. This legislative measure requires applicants to be at least 21 years of age, submit personal identification, and undergo rigorous background checks that assess their criminal history and mental health. Failure to comply with the new permit requirement will result in penalty measures including felonies for dealers who knowingly sell firearms without verifying the purchaser's permit status.

Contention

However, the bill has raised significant contention among various stakeholders. Proponents argue that SB1109 is a necessary measure to curb gun violence and enhance the safety of citizens. They emphasize the importance of preventing potentially dangerous individuals from accessing firearms. Conversely, opponents contend that the bill infringes on Second Amendment rights and could impede law-abiding citizens' ability to purchase firearms in a timely manner. Critics express concerns about the bureaucratic burden placed on both consumers and dealers, suggesting that the permit process might lead to unnecessary delays in firearm acquisition.