Virginia Governor Faces Legal Threat Over Gun Bills

The Department of Justice has warned Virginia’s governor that it will sue if she signs new gun‑control laws. A letter from the Civil Rights Division says any bill that limits law‑abiding citizens’ right to own firearms could trigger a lawsuit. The letter cites an executive order from the Trump administration that stresses protecting Second Amendment rights. One bill, called SB 749, would make it a crime to buy or sell AR‑15 rifles. The Democratic legislature has already passed the bill and it sits on the governor’s desk. She must decide by April 13 whether to sign, veto or amend it. On Friday the governor signed several other gun‑related bills. These include rules on manufacturer liability, ghost guns and people linked to domestic‑violence misdemeanors.

She said the laws help protect children, support police and reduce gun violence in communities. The DOJ’s warning notes that the state has more than 20 proposals that could restrict gun rights. The agency urges the governor to reconsider any bill that would limit lawful use of protected firearms. It says it is ready to file a lawsuit if the governor moves forward. The DOJ’s move marks a first time the department has issued a pre‑emptive warning to a governor. Critics say this signals an escalating conflict over gun policy in the United States. They argue that only a Supreme Court decision could resolve the growing tension between state law and federal enforcement. The governor’s approval rating is low, around 47 %. She has faced criticism from both sides of the political spectrum.

Actions