Bill > SB891

This bill amends Virginia state law to establish a mandatory five-day waiting period for firearm purchases. Under the proposed changes, no person can sell a firearm unless at least five days have elapsed from the time a prospective purchaser completes a written consent form for a criminal history record check. This waiting period applies to both licensed dealers and private sellers, with some exceptions for specific scenarios like law enforcement transactions, antique firearms, or gun buyback programs. The bill requires sellers to obtain verification from a licensed dealer that a criminal history check has been completed and mandates that the prospective purchaser must wait the full five-day period before the firearm can be transferred. Violations of these new requirements would be classified as a Class 1 misdemeanor. The legislation aims to introduce an additional layer of safety screening for firearm purchases by providing a mandatory waiting period during which potential issues with the buyer's background can be thoroughly investigated. The bill also includes provisions for potential fees associated with conducting the required background checks and specifies detailed procedures for implementing the new waiting period requirement.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20251/SB891