On Tuesday, March 2, the Virginia House of Delegates voted to approve SB334, sponsored by State Senator Emmet Hanger (R-24) by a margin of 72 to 27. The measure previously passed in the Senate on February 16, by a vote of 22 to 18 and will now be sent to Governor McDonnell’s desk for his consideration.

Senate Bill 334, sponsored by State Senator Emmett Hanger (R-24), would allow concealed carry permit holders to carry a concealed firearm for self-defense in restaurants that serve alcohol, provided they do not consume alcohol. Senator Hanger’s bill would make it a misdemeanor for a permit holder to consume alcohol while on the premises of the restaurant.

Additionally, the House will also send both Senate Bill 3 and Senate Bill 408 to Governor McDonnell. 

Senate Bill 3, sponsored by State Senator Ralph Smith (R-22), would allow the renewal of resident concealed carry permits by mail. The House passed SB3 by a vote of 81 to 18.

Senate Bill 408, introduced by State Senator Jill Vogel (R-27), would allow any person who may lawfully possess a firearm and is carrying a handgun while in a personal, private vehicle or vessel, to keep the firearm locked in a container or compartment in the vehicle or vessel. SB408 passed the House 74 to 25.

Please contact Governor McDonnell and respectfully request he sign Senate Bill 334 and bring Virginia in line with 40 other states that allow some form of concealed carry in restaurants.  Also, please urge Governor McDonnell to sign SB 3 and SB 408.