Story perspectives

Virginia Assembly Passes Assault Weapons Ban; Governor Reviews

3/21/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The Virginia General Assembly passed legislation banning the sale and production of assault weapons and prohibiting public carrying.
The bills follow universal background checks and red-flag laws implemented previously in the state.
Governor Abigail Spanberger (Virginia) is reviewing the measures as the policy advances.
The measure defines assault firearms as semi-automatic rifles or pistols with magazines over 15 rounds, and allows existing owners to keep their rifles.

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Story summary

The Virginia General Assembly passed legislation banning the sale and production of assault weapons and prohibiting public carrying.
The bills follow universal background checks and red-flag laws implemented previously in the state.
Governor Abigail Spanberger (Virginia) is reviewing the measures as the policy advances.
The measure defines assault firearms as semi-automatic rifles or pistols with magazines over 15 rounds, and allows existing owners to keep their rifles.