Virginia Gun Bills 2026: Proposed “Assault Firearms” Ban, 10-Round Magazine Restrictions, and a New Suppressor Tax
Tags: Virginia gun laws 2026, Virginia firearm bills, Virginia magazine ban, 10-round magazine limit, standard-capacity magazines, suppressor tax Virginia, suppressor laws Virginia, semi-automatic firearm ban, threaded barrel Virginia, firearm legislation update, Second Amendment Virginia
Virginia’s 2026 legislative session is bringing a new wave of proposed firearm legislation that could impact semi-automatic rifles, semi-automatic pistols, semi-automatic shotguns, standard-capacity magazines, and suppressors. Proposals discussed publicly include a feature-based “assault firearms” framework, a 10-round magazine threshold, and a proposed state-level suppressor tax.
Not legal advice: This article is general information only. Laws and definitions can change quickly. For legal guidance on compliance in Virginia, consult a qualified attorney.
HB 217: Feature-based “assault firearms” definitions
One proposal described publicly is HB 217, summarized as using a feature-based approach to define certain commonly owned semi-automatic firearms as “assault firearms.” Examples cited in the public discussion include features often found on modern sporting platforms such as pistol grips, threaded barrels, folding or adjustable stocks, muzzle devices, and the ability to accept detachable magazines.
The same public summary indicates the scope may also include semi-automatic pistols with threaded barrels and semi-automatic shotguns with detachable magazines (or certain fixed magazine capacities).
10-round magazine restrictions: focus on “over 10 rounds”
Another major component highlighted in the public discussion is a 10-round magazine threshold. The summary describes restrictions aimed at magazines capable of holding more than 10 rounds, which can affect many popular handgun and rifle setups that ship with standard-capacity magazines above 10 rounds.
Penalties and downstream effects mentioned in the public summary
The same public write-up claims the proposal includes criminal penalties for certain prohibited conduct and adds related consequences. During Virginia legislative sessions, bill language can change quickly through amendments and substitutes, so it’s worth tracking official bill text and committee updates.
HB 207: Proposed $500 Virginia suppressor tax
Another bill described publicly is HB 207, summarized as imposing a $500 Virginia tax on suppressors. This would be a state-level charge separate from the existing federal compliance process, and it could materially change the total cost of suppressor ownership in Virginia.
SB 27 and SB 38: liability and “prohibited person” changes
The same public alert references SB 27 and SB 38, framing them as bills that could affect manufacturer/dealer liability and rules around transfers or confiscation involving prohibited persons.
What to do next (practical steps)
- Track bill text: Watch for committee substitutes and amendments—those can change how a bill works in practice.
- Follow committee calendars: Hearings and votes can move fast during session.
- Communicate clearly: If you contact lawmakers, focus on one or two issues: magazine limits, feature-based bans, or suppressor taxes.
Source
Rewritten from a public alert: Gun Owners of America — VA: New Sweeping Gun & Magazine Bans and Suppressor Taxes
Note: The linked source is an advocacy publication. For definitive details, verify current bill text and status using official Virginia legislative resources.
