Virginia House Bill HB700

Virginia 2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/13/26
• Refer: 1/13/26

Caption

Firearms; waiting period for purchase, penalties.

Notes

The bill also introduces specific penalties for those who falsify information on the background check forms or those who attempt to purchase firearms with the intent of transferring them to ineligible individuals. Such actions would qualify as felonies, indicating the bill's stringent approach toward maintaining the integrity of firearm sales and transfers in Virginia.

Impact

The implementation of HB700 is expected to significantly alter the existing legal framework governing firearm transactions in Virginia. By requiring background checks and establishing penalties for non-compliance, the bill aims to prevent firearms from falling into the hands of individuals deemed ineligible to possess them. For instance, any dealer who knowingly sells a firearm without fulfilling these regulations could face serious legal penalties, categorized under Class 6 felonies for willful violations of the law.

Summary

House Bill 700 introduces new regulations regarding the purchase and transfer of firearms in Virginia, particularly focusing on the requirements for conducting criminal history record checks. The bill mandates that any person buying a firearm from a dealer must consent to a criminal background check and provide personal information including name, date of birth, and social security number. Furthermore, it establishes a waiting period of at least five days before a purchase can be completed, ensuring adequate time for the background check to be processed by the State Police.

Contention

Debate surrounding HB700 is likely to focus on the balance between public safety and the rights of individual gun owners. Proponents argue that heightened background checks and a mandatory waiting period could decrease gun violence and improve community safety by ensuring that firearms are not easily accessible to at-risk individuals. However, opponents may view the bill as an infringement on Second Amendment rights, arguing that it imposes unnecessary hurdles for law-abiding citizens wishing to purchase firearms.