A House substitute to Senate Bill 1335, patroned by state Senator Mark Obenshain (R-26), passed in the Virginia Senate today by a 32-8 vote after its approval in the House of Delegates by 76-23 vote on Tuesday. The substitute to S.B. 1335, reported by the House Militia, Police and Public Safety Committee, protects the confidentiality of all concealed handgun permit (CHP) holders in Virginia. S.B. 1335 now goes to Governor Bob McDonnell (R) for his expected signature.
This legislation is essential for the protection of law-abiding gun owners in the Old Dominion. Recently, there have been several instances of anti-gun media outlets publishing the names and addresses of CHP holders which jeopardizes the safety and violates the privacy of law-abiding citizens. Such publications place lawful CHP holders at risk to criminals who may target their home to steal firearms. When signed into law by Governor McDonnell, S.B. 1335 will ensure that this never happens in Virginia, making the Commonwealth the 32nd state to enact such privacy protection.
Thank you to all NRA members who contacted your state lawmakers in support of this important state legislation! Please e-mail Governor McDonnell to express your support for Senate Bill 1335 and urge him to sign it into law. To send an e-mail using an on-line form, please click here.