Virginia judge expands statewide injunction on new firearms restrictions

Washington County Circuit Court Judge Jeffrey L. Campbell issued an amended opinion that broadens his earlier preliminary injunction to block enforcement of Virginia’s recently enacted assault‑weapon and large‑capacity‑magazine laws across the entire state. The injunction now applies to all law‑enforcement agencies and Commonwealth’s Attorneys, preventing the enforcement of Senate Bill 749 and House Bill 1217, which define certain firearms as “assault firearms” and limit magazines to 15 rounds.

The order’s effective date was set for July 21, giving officials time to notify agencies statewide. The ruling is a temporary measure; the court has not issued a final determination on the constitutionality of the statutes. Plaintiffs—including gun owners, firearms businesses, and the Virginia Shooting Sports Association—argued the restrictions violate the Virginia Constitution’s guarantee of the right to keep and bear arms.