Bill > HB229

This bill makes it a Class 1 misdemeanor, a serious but less severe criminal offense, for anyone to knowingly and intentionally bring certain weapons into a hospital in Virginia that provides mental health services or developmental services, which includes emergency departments. The prohibited weapons include firearms, knives with blades longer than three and a half inches (referred to as "location-restricted knives"), and other dangerous items like explosives and stun weapons. The bill defines "developmental services" and "mental health services" as they are defined in existing state law, and clarifies that a "hospital" is an institution licensed under specific chapters of state law. Importantly, for a person to be convicted, clear notice of this prohibition must be posted at every public entrance of the hospital, unless the person already knew about the rule. Weapons found in violation will be seized and forfeited to the state. There are exceptions for law enforcement officers, authorized hospital personnel, and individuals brought to the hospital under specific legal orders for mental health or developmental reasons.

Budget and Finance, Justice

https://lis.virginia.gov/bill-details/20261/HB229