Bill > HB1622

This bill establishes new regulations regarding handguns in unattended motor vehicles in Virginia. Specifically, the bill defines an "unattended motor vehicle" as a vehicle left on public property where the owner or passengers cannot observe it. The legislation prohibits individuals from leaving, placing, or storing a handgun in such a vehicle if the firearm is visible to people outside the vehicle. Violators can be subject to a civil penalty of up to $500, with collected penalties being deposited into the state's Literary Fund. Additionally, the bill stipulates that a vehicle found in violation can be deemed illegally parked and potentially removed for safekeeping. The term "handgun" is defined by reference to an existing section of Virginia law (§ 18.2-307.1), and the bill is intended to enhance public safety by discouraging the visible storage of firearms in unattended vehicles in public spaces.