VA HB229

Prohibits knowingly possessing firearms, knives with blades over 3.5 inches, explosives, or stun weapons in any public or private hospital that provides mental health or developmental services in Virginia

Violation constitutes a Class 1 misdemeanor, and seized weapons are subject to forfeiture to the Commonwealth

Exempts law enforcement officers, correctional officers, armed security officers, hospital employees with written authorization, and persons brought in under emergency custody or involuntary detention orders

Requires hospitals to post conspicuous notice of the prohibition at each public entrance; no conviction allowed without posted notice unless the person had actual knowledge of the law

Estimated minimum fiscal impact of $50,000 due to potential increase in imprisonment periods