Virginia is days away from one of the most significant changes to its firearms laws in decades. Starting July 1, 2026, the sale, manufacture, transfer, and importation of certain semi-automatic firearms — commonly referred to as "assault weapons" — will be prohibited under state law. If you own guns, live in Virginia, or plan to travel there, here's everything you need to know.

What Does Virginia's New Gun Law Actually Ban?

Virginia's House Bill 217 / Senate Bill 749, signed by Governor Abigail Spanberger in April 2026, prohibits the future sale of firearms the state defines as "assault firearms." Specifically, the law bans:

• Semi-automatic centerfire rifles with a detachable magazine and at least one listed feature (pistol grip, folding/telescoping stock, flash suppressor, grenade launcher mount, etc.)
• Semi-automatic centerfire pistols with a detachable magazine and at least two listed features
• Semi-automatic shotguns with at least one listed feature
• Magazines capable of holding more than 15 rounds

Bolt-action, pump-action, lever-action, and slide-action firearms are not affected. Antique and permanently inoperable firearms are also exempt.

Who Is Grandfathered In?

If you already legally own a firearm or magazine that falls under the new ban, you are allowed to keep it. The law is prospective — it targets future sales, not current ownership.

Under certain limited conditions, pre-July 1 firearms may also be:

• Transferred to immediate family members
• Sold back to a licensed dealer
• Sent for repairs
• Inherited

However, broad resale or transfer to the general public will not be permitted after the law takes effect.

Why Are Virginia Gun Sales Surging?

In the months leading up to July 1, Virginia has seen a massive spike in firearm purchases. According to National Shooting Sports Foundation data, background checks on gun transfers in Virginia in May 2026 were up 103% compared to May 2025. April 2026 saw a 79% increase over the prior year.

Virginia ranked as the fourth highest state for gun sales in May, trailing only Texas, Florida, and California. Gun owners are rushing to purchase popular semi-automatic rifles, pistols, and shotguns before they're pulled from store shelves.

Is the Law Being Challenged in Court?

Yes — and aggressively. Within hours of Governor Spanberger signing the bill, multiple lawsuits were filed in both state and federal court, including challenges from:

• The National Rifle Association (NRA)
• Gun Owners of America (GOA)
• Virginia Citizens Defense League (VCDL)
• Firearms Policy Coalition (FPC)
• Second Amendment Foundation (SAF)

The NRA argues the law violates Second Amendment protections. Challengers are pursuing separate lawsuits on different legal theories, including a challenge under Article 1, Section 13 of the Virginia Constitution.

Attorney General Jay Jones has moved to consolidate the four separate lawsuits into one case, but plaintiffs have argued they each raise distinct legal questions.

The law is still set to take effect July 1, though court rulings before that date could delay or block enforcement.

Where Does Virginia Now Stand Among Other States?

With this law, Virginia becomes the 11th state to enact a ban on the sale of semi-automatic centerfire rifles meeting a features test, joining:

California, New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, Maryland, Massachusetts, Hawaii, Delaware, Illinois, and Washington.

Key Dates and Deadlines

What Should Virginia Gun Owners Do Before July 1?

1. Know what you own. Review whether your current firearms fall under the new definitions.
2. Make purchases now if you intend to buy a covered firearm — legally, while you still can.
3. Document your ownership. Keep receipts, purchase records, and registration documents to prove pre-July 1 ownership if needed.
4. Follow the court challenges. A judge could issue an injunction before July 1 — or not. Don't assume the law will be blocked.
5. Consult a Virginia firearms attorney if you're unsure about specific guns, transfers, or compliance.

The Bottom Line

Virginia's July 1 assault weapons ban is real, it's signed, and it's days away. Whether you support the law or oppose it, understanding exactly what it does — and doesn't — cover is critical for every gun owner in the Commonwealth. The legal battles ahead will likely shape gun laws not just in Virginia, but across the country.