Lancaster County, Virginia – A Virginia judge temporarily blocked enforcement of the state’s new assault weapons sales ban days before it was scheduled to take effect.
Lancaster County Circuit Court Judge R. Michael McKenney granted a preliminary injunction Thursday barring Virginia State Police from enforcing Senate Bill 749 through Dec. 31, unless the court modifies the order.
The law, signed by Democratic Gov. Abigail Spanberger, bans the sale, purchase, manufacture, import, or transfer of certain semiautomatic firearms defined as “assault firearms.” It also restricts magazines holding more than 15 rounds. The law does not ban possession of firearms already owned.
Gun Owners of America, the Virginia Citizens Defense League, gun-rights activist John Crump, and other plaintiffs sued, arguing the law violates the Second Amendment and the Virginia Constitution.
Virginia Attorney General Jay Jones called the ruling disappointing and said the state would seek an urgent stay and appeal the injunction. Supporters argue the law is needed to reduce gun violence, while opponents say it restricts commonly owned firearms.
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