Virginia Bill Would Overturn AG’s Reciprocity Decision

A new bill has been introduced in the Virginia state legislature that would overturn the controversial gun-control measures announced by Attorney General Mark Herring last month. The proposed legislation would effectively reverse the attorney general’s decision to stop recognizing concealed-handgun permits from 25 states with less restrictive gun laws. If passed, the bill would authorize concealed-carry permits from any state, as long as the permit-holders are at least 21, and Herring would be obligated to sign reciprocity agreements with states that require them to recognize Virginia permits. 

“This bill will protect the Second Amendment rights of law-abiding Virginians, specifically their right to carry a concealed handgun outside of the commonwealth,” said state Sen. Bryce Reeves, R–Spotsylvania, in a statement to The Free Lance–Star. “A clear majority of Virginians believe that law-abiding citizens have the inherent right to self-defense, including when outside of their home.”