RICHMOND, Va. — February 5, 2026
In one of the most significant firearm policy developments in recent Virginia history, the Virginia House of Delegates has passed House Bill 217 (HB 217), a sweeping measure that would prohibit the sale, transfer, and manufacture of certain semi-automatic firearms and large-capacity magazines across the Commonwealth. The bill passed the House with a vote of 58-34 and now moves to the Virginia Senate for consideration.
If approved by the Senate and signed into law by the governor, HB 217 would reshape firearm ownership and sales in Virginia, particularly affecting future purchases and transfers of firearms classified under its expanded definition of “assault firearms.”
What HB 217 Does
At its core, HB 217 would make it illegal to import, sell, manufacture, purchase, or transfer firearms classified as “assault firearms” under the new definition established by the bill. Violations would be treated as a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and fines.
The legislation specifically targets many semi-automatic rifles, pistols, and shotguns based on certain features such as:
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Detachable magazines
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Adjustable or folding stocks
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Threaded barrels
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Pistol grips
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Certain other military-style features
These features are commonly found on modern sporting rifles and many widely owned firearms used for self-defense, recreation, and lawful purposes.
Magazine Capacity Restrictions
HB 217 would also prohibit the sale and transfer of certain large-capacity ammunition feeding devices, commonly known as magazines.
While the bill does not criminalize possession of existing magazines in many cases, it would restrict the future sale and distribution of those exceeding defined capacity limits, effectively phasing them out of circulation over time.
Impact on Current Gun Owners
One of the most important aspects of HB 217 is that it is not fully retroactive. Firearms manufactured before July 1, 2026, are generally exempt, meaning individuals who legally own qualifying firearms before that date would not automatically become criminals simply for owning them.
However, future sales, transfers, and new purchases of restricted firearms would be prohibited, meaning existing firearms could be retained but not freely sold or transferred.
Certain exemptions would also apply, including for:
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Law enforcement officers
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Military personnel
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Antique or permanently inoperable firearms
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Manually operated firearms such as bolt-action or pump-action weapons
Additional Restrictions on Younger Adults
The bill also includes provisions specifically affecting younger adults. Individuals under the age of 21 would be prohibited from possessing, purchasing, or transferring firearms covered by the new definition, regardless of when they were manufactured, with limited exceptions.
Supporters Say It Will Improve Public Safety
Supporters of HB 217 argue the legislation is necessary to reduce gun violence and protect communities.
Delegate Dan Helmer, one of the bill’s chief sponsors and a military veteran, said the measure is intended to limit access to firearms similar to those used in military environments.
Supporters believe the bill would bring Virginia in line with other states that have adopted similar restrictions and help prevent mass shootings and violent crime.
Proponents also argue the bill focuses primarily on future sales rather than confiscating firearms already owned by law-abiding citizens.
Opponents Raise Constitutional and Practical Concerns
Opponents argue the bill unfairly targets law-abiding gun owners while doing little to address criminal behavior.
Critics claim the legislation could restrict firearms commonly owned for lawful purposes such as home defense, hunting, and recreational shooting. They also argue the measure could face constitutional challenges based on Second Amendment protections.
Some opponents also warn that restricting legal firearm ownership does not directly address the root causes of violent crime.
What Happens Next
HB 217 has cleared the Virginia House, but it is not yet law.
The bill must still:
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Pass the Virginia Senate
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Be signed by the governor
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Survive potential legal challenges
If approved, the law would likely take effect beginning July 1, 2026.
Why This Matters
HB 217 represents one of the most significant firearm regulatory efforts in Virginia in recent years. The bill could:
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Change how firearms are bought and sold in Virginia
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Limit future ownership of certain semi-automatic firearms
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Affect firearm dealers, manufacturers, and private sellers
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Influence gun policy debates nationwide
The legislation comes amid ongoing national discussions about balancing public safety concerns with constitutional rights.
Current Status Summary
Bill: HB 217
Status: Passed Virginia House
Next Step: Virginia Senate vote
Effective Date (if passed): Likely July 1, 2026
Impact: Restricts future sale and transfer of certain semi-automatic firearms and large-capacity magazines
