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VA HB696

Bill

Official Source

Status

Introduced

1/13/2026

Primary Sponsor

Eric Zehr

Click for details

Origin

House of Delegates

2026 Regular Regular Session

AI Summary

  • Adds highway rest areas and government liquor stores (ABC stores) to the list of Commonwealth-owned or leased buildings where the firearm prohibition does not apply
  • Current law prohibits carrying firearms or explosives in state-owned buildings, Capitol Square, and offices where state employees work, with violations punishable as a Class 1 misdemeanor
  • Existing exemptions already include state parks, public university property, courthouses (for certain individuals), and state police officers (active and qualified retired)
  • Introduced by Delegate Zehr on January 14, 2026, amending Virginia Code § 18.2-283.2

Legislative Description

Firearm/explosive material; carrying into a bldg. owned or leased by the Commonwealth, exceptions.

Last Action

Left in Committee Public Safety

2/18/2026

Committee Referrals

Public Safety2/18/2026
Militia, Police and Public Safety: Firearms1/20/2026
Public Safety1/13/2026

Full Bill Text

No bill text available