Virginia: Right-to Carry Confidentiality Bill Goes to Senate for Concurrence

Today, Senate Bill 1335, patroned by Senator Mark Obenshain (R-26), passed in the House of Delegates by a 76-23 vote. Last Friday, S.B. 1335 was reported with a substitute by the House Militia, Police and Public Safety Committee by a 16-6 vote.  The amended version of this bill protects the confidentiality of all concealed handgun permit (CHP) holders in Virginia and now goes to the state Senate for concurrence this week.

This legislation is essential for the protection of law-abiding gun owners in the Old Dominion. Recently, there have been several instances of anti-gun media outlets publishing the names and addresses of CHP holders which jeopardizes the safety and violates the privacy of law-abiding citizens. Such publications place lawful CHP holders at risk to criminals who may target their home to steal firearms. S.B. 1335 would ensure that this never happens in Virginia.

It is important that you contact your state Senator TODAY and respectfully urge him or her support for the House amendment to S.B. 1335 because it will increase the safety of Virginians across the Commonwealth. For help identifying your elected official and contact information, please click here.

Senate Bill 1363, sponsored by Senator Jill Vogel (R-27), passed in the House of Delegates by a 100-0 vote. This bill provides that residency for members of the armed forces shall include both the member’s permanent duty post and the nearby state in which the military personnel resides for the purposes of firearms purchases. S.B. 1363 will now go before the Governor for his expected signature.