STATE
VIRGINIA GUN LAWS
In 2021, Virginia enacted a strong package of strong gun safety laws, but there remains much more the state should do to protect its communities from gun violence.
Scorecard Grade
This package of gun safety bills included universal background checks, an extreme risk protection law, stronger protections for victims of domestic violence, and meaningful investments in community violence intervention programs. In 2024, Virginia had the 23rd lowest gun death rate among the states. In an average year, 1,226 people die from gun violence in the state. That means someone dies from gun violence every seven hours. Fifty-nine percent of those deaths are gun suicides, and 39% are gun homicides. In Virginia, the rate of gun deaths increased 17% from 2015 to 2024, compared to a 15% increase nationwide.
EXPLORE VIRGINIA’S GUN LAWS
OWNER RESPONSIBILITIES
CHILD & CONSUMER SAFETY
OTHER LAWS & POLICIES
What VIRGINIA Does Well
- Universal background checks
- Extreme risk protection orders
- Domestic violence laws
- Partial assault weapon restrictions
- Certain child access prevention laws
- Community violence intervention funding
- Lost & stolen firearm reporting
- State database background checks
- Partial gun dealer regulation
What VIRGINIA Is Missing
- Gun owner licensing
- Large capacity magazine ban
- Waiting periods
- Strong concealed carry law
- Open carry regulations
- Bulk firearm purchase restrictions
- Ammunition sale regulations
SPOTLIGHT
GUN VIOLENCE STATISTICS
Explore facts, figures, and original analysis compiled by our experts. To end our gun violence crisis, we need to better understand where, how, and why violence occurs.
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JOIN THE FIGHT
Nearly 47,000 Americans lose their lives to gun violence every year. In communities, courts, and ballot boxes nationwide, GIFFORDS fights to save lives from gun violence. Will you join us?