Bill > HB2202

This bill amends Virginia's concealed weapon law to allow individuals who are otherwise eligible to obtain a concealed handgun permit to carry a concealed handgun without a permit, provided they can legally carry a handgun openly in the Commonwealth. Specifically, the bill adds a new provision (subdivision 11) to the existing statute that removes the requirement for obtaining a formal permit to carry a concealed handgun. The new provision stipulates that such individuals are exempt from certain training and qualification requirements typically associated with concealed handgun permits. This change effectively means that any person who is legally allowed to openly carry a handgun in Virginia can now also carry that handgun concealed without first obtaining a permit. The bill maintains existing exceptions to the concealed weapons law, such as protections for law enforcement, judges, and certain professionals, and does not alter restrictions on where weapons can be carried. The change represents a significant shift in Virginia's approach to concealed carry, moving from a permit-required system to a more permissive "constitutional carry" model.

Justice

https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20251/HB2202