Virginia: Final Vote on Right-to-Carry Confidentiality Bill Tomorrow

Senate Bill 1335, patroned by state Senator Mark Obenshain (R-26), will go to the Virginia Senate for concurrence tomorrow.  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.  Yesterday the amended version of S.B. 1335 passed in the House of Delegates by a 76-23 vote.  Tomorrow the state Senate will vote to concur (agree) with the House amendment to S.B. 1335.

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.  One exercising Second Amendment rights should not be put at risk of being a victim of gun theft by the public exposure of their private information, and enactment of this Gun Owner Privacy Protection legislation will prevent such abuse.

It is very important that you contact your state Senator TODAY and respectfully urge him or her to support the House amendment to S.B. 1335 because it will increase the safety of Virginians across the Commonwealth.  Also, please let your Senator know 31 states have already enacted Right-to-Carry confidentiality laws, and 8 states are pursuing such legislation this year!  For help identifying your elected official and contact information, please click here.