Today, the Virginia Senate passed Senate Bill 1035 by a 24-16 vote. The bill now heads to the House.
Sponsored by Senator Emmett Hanger, Jr. (R-24), SB1035 would permit a Right-to-Carry permit holder to carry a concealed firearm into a restaurant, provided they notify a designated employee that they posses a concealed handgun and do not consume any alcohol. This bill is similar to last year’s bill that was passed and ultimately vetoed by Governor Tim Kaine (D).
Currently, concealed carry permit holders dining in restaurants that serve alcohol must leave their firearm at home or locked in their vehicle, where it is at risk of being stolen. Despite passing a background check and possessing a state issued permit to carry, law-abiding permit holders are forced to give up their right to self-defense when dining in establishments that serve alcohol. The need for this legislation is clear.
Please contact your State Representative TODAY in Richmond at (804) 698-1990 and respectfully urge them to support SB1035. More contact information can be found by clicking here.