The amendment would also impose a 10-round magazine limit and make it a Class 1 misdemeanor to import, sell, manufacture, purchase, or transfer such weapons. 

Crucially for gun owners, the legislation clarifies that this limit does not include a grandfather provision for sales or transfers, effectively making the trade of high-capacity magazines illegal if the bill becomes law.  

The legislation would not ban possession of assault weapons already owned, and it would allow transfers between family members or via wills. 

During the debate, GOP lawmakers framed the proposal as an infringement on Second Amendment rights.

Republican state Sen. Mark Peake warned that disarming citizens weakens a check against “tyrannical government.” 

Conversely, Democratic state Sen. Creigh Deeds defended the necessity of the ban, pointing to the epidemic of gun violence, specifically citing the recent fatal shooting of 37-year-old Alex Pretti in Minnesota as an example of why high-capacity weapons should not be readily available to the public. 

The Virginia Senate Republicans Caucus was quick to condemn the legislation on social media, warning gun owners to “beware.”

“Virginia Democrats are targeting law-abiding gun owners while eliminating mandatory minimums for individuals who commit actual gun crimes,” the caucus posted on X.

Despite its success in committee, the bill faces an uphill battle. To become law, it must clear the Senate Finance and Appropriations Committee, pass a full Senate vote, and survive the House of Delegates.

Gov. Abigail Spanberger (D-VA), who has expressed strong support for “common-sense gun safety,” remains the final hurdle. 

ABIGAIL SPANBERGER’S VIRGINIA BAIT AND SWITCH

Spanberger has previously indicated that she is willing and ready to enforce gun safety measures in this session. 

“I am ready to sign these bills. Please send them,” Spanberger said during her first address to the General Assembly.