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2017 SESSION
(SB1315)GOVERNOR'S VETO
Pursuant to Article V, Section 6, of the Constitution of Virginia, I veto Senate Bill 1315, which would undercut current safety requirements for the storage of firearms and ammunition in foster care homes.
Many children in foster care have suffered difficult childhood experiences and struggle to find a stable home. The state has a special responsibility to ensure that those children enjoy living conditions that are as safe as possible.
To provide an extra layer of protection from unintended use of weapons in foster care homes, the state currently requires firearms and ammunition to be stored in separate, locked locations. Senate Bill 1315 would eliminate this added protection, increasing the risk that children might gain unauthorized access to firearms and ammunition.
During the Reconvened Session, I offered a substitute amendment that would have strengthened the gun safety provisions by requiring compliance with local ordinances, requiring firearms to be stored separately from ammunition, and clarifying the required use of safety mechanisms. This amendment was rejected.
The unintended use of weapons can pose a serious danger to children and adults in foster care homes.
Accordingly, I veto this bill.
GOVERNOR’S RECOMMENDATION
That the amendment in the nature of a substitute (17105970D) be accepted.