Virginia gun law enforcement resistance grows
Key Questions
Why are some Virginia officials refusing to enforce the assault-weapons ban?
Multiple prosecutors and sheriffs are openly refusing to enforce the new ban set to take effect July 1. A gun manufacturer is also leaving the state due to the law.
What is Senator Lucas proposing in response to resistance against the gun law?
Senator Lucas is pushing to oust sheriffs who defy the assault-weapons ban.
What legislation is Governor Spanberger signing on gun violence?
Spanberger is signing a batch of laws she says will prevent gun violence, save lives, and improve community safety in Virginia.
Multiple Virginia prosecutors and sheriffs are openly refusing to enforce the new assault-weapons ban taking effect July 1. Senator Lucas is pushing to oust sheriffs who defy the law. A gun manufacturer is also leaving the state, adding an economic dimension.
Sources (2)
Updated Jun 16, 2026