GOVERNOR'S VETO

Pursuant to Article V, Section 6, of the Constitution of Virginia, I veto House Bill 351, which requires firearm locking devices or certifications to sell, purchase, or transfer firearms to individuals in households where minors reside.

In 2023, I signed House Bill 2387, which created a tax credit for firearm safety devices. This legislation enhanced public safety and encouraged responsible firearm ownership. I remain willing and ready to collaborate with the General Assembly on more incentives to ensure secure firearm storage and prevent access by dangerous individuals.

Just this year, the General Assembly passed bipartisan legislation, which I signed, that prevents parents from willfully allowing a minor child to gain access to a firearm if that child poses a threat of credible violence.

These approaches are collaborative and account for areas of bipartisan compromise, which can ultimately lead to the safety and well-being of children without affecting law-abiding citizens or their constitutional guarantees.

Accordingly, I veto this bill.