01/10/2026
The “assault weapon” bill has been filed. It’s not near as bad as previous versions - but there is a purchase ban. Here’s what it proposes:
If this bill becomes law, law-abiding Virginians who already own an AR-15 or other semi-automatic rifles would NOT become criminals simply for possessing them.
There is no blanket possession ban for current adult owners.
What HB 217 does do is:
• Ban the future sale, purchase, manufacture, importation, or transfer of defined “assault fi****ms” after the law takes effect.
• Grandfather current owners by omission — meaning continued possession by adults 21+ remains lawful under the introduced text.
• Impose criminal penalties only for new transactions, not past lawful ownership.
In plain English:
• Own one now? You’re not a criminal for keeping it.
• Want to buy or sell one after the law? That’s what the bill targets.
Other versions might get filed, but this is the first glimpse of what Democrats will do in 2026 related to semi automatic rifles
