Virginia Judge Blocks Semi-Automatic Weapons Ban

A Virginia judge has announced that a recent ban on modern semi-automatic weapons has been put on hold across the state. This decision raises concerns about a potentially “dangerous patchwork” of regulations.

After Democratic Governor Abigail Spanberger enacted the “assault weapons” ban, known as SB 749, on May 14, several gun rights advocacy groups—like the National Rifle Association (NRA), Gun Owners Association of America (GOA), Virginia Citizens Defense League (VCDL), Second Amendment Foundation (SAF), and Firearms Policy Coalition (FPC)—quickly filed a lawsuit to challenge the ban as unconstitutional. In a letter from Judge Jeffrey Campbell of the Washington County Circuit Court, the injunction was expanded to protect non-parties as well, highlighting the complications that could arise for individuals moving modern semi-automatic weapons across county lines.

Judge Campbell expressed concerns about the potential for inconsistent enforcement, noting that someone crossing into Grayson County could face prosecution since the injunction doesn’t reach that area. He articulated in the letter, “This court is concerned that this could lead to a patchwork of unfair enforcement practices for both plaintiffs and law enforcement.”

The court also pondered its authority to impose a statewide injunction, referencing a 2025 Supreme Court ruling that indicated district courts could not issue “universal injunctions.” However, Campbell cited Virginia law that permits broad injunctive powers for statewide matters.

“Chapter 24 of the 1950 Virginia Code Title 8.01 (as amended) gives the circuit court broad authority to enter injunctions in matters with statewide application,” he noted.

Virginia’s Democratic Attorney General Jay Jones has not yet responded to inquiries about the situation.

The NRA’s Executive Director, John Comerford, stated, “The NRA has secured a statewide injunction blocking Abigail Spanberger’s ban on semi-automatic firearms and standard capacity magazines.” He affirmed that Virginia courts recognize this as a clear infringement on constitutional rights, preventing enforcement by law enforcement agencies throughout the state.

He added that this victory for gun owners represents a significant step in ensuring the rights of law-abiding Virginians remain protected as the challenge continues. “The NRA and our world-class defense team will persist in court until this unconstitutional measure is entirely rescinded,” Comerford said.

As of late June, 17 federal attorneys and 12 county sheriffs have expressed their intent not to enforce the ban on modern semi-automatic firearms or any related carry restrictions, according to the Virginia Civil Defense League (VCDL).

Furthermore, the Supreme Court has accepted Writs of certiorari in cases like Viramontes v. Cook County, Illinois, and Grant v. Higgins, which involve bans similar to those imposed in Cook County and Connecticut. These cases are scheduled for consideration in the upcoming October term.