Senator Stuart briefs Board on gun legislation that passed

King George County supervisors unanimously voted to reaffirm the county’s status as a Second Amendment Sanctuary, signaling continued support for gun rights amid contentious legislation advancing through the Virginia General Assembly.

The resolution, originally passed in 2022, states that the Board of Supervisors has taken an oath to support and defend both the U.S. Constitution and the Constitution of the Commonwealth of Virginia. It also acknowledges the Board’s authority over county funds and resources.

The document reasserts that the county will uphold and defend the rights of law‑abiding citizens to keep and bear arms as guaranteed by federal and state constitutions. It specifies that, to the extent permitted by law, county funds and resources will not be used to enforce or assist in enforcing any law, regulation, or executive action the Board determines to be unconstitutional.

Supervisor William Davis called for the vote, citing growing concern from constituents and a desire to make the county’s stance clear.

County Attorney and State Senator Richard Stuart briefed the Board on several significant firearms‑related bills that recently passed both chambers of the General Assembly. He noted that these were the types of things he’s seen presented but never seen get passed.

One of the most controversial measures is the proposed assault‑weapons ban. “That’s a poor way to describe it because it is based upon outward characteristics of a gun,” said Stuart. “It is more about what the appearance is than what the functionality of it is. And as oftentimes is the case, many of these bills are drafted by folks who don’t use firearms. And so there are things about it that probably cause unintended consequences.”

Stuart also warned of legislation that would impose an additional tax on firearms and ammunition. He explained that the proposal would impose an 11% tax added to the sales tax on all weapons and all ammunition including those for hunting. “So now you’ll pay about 17% tax on everything, any kind of weapon, even birdshot to go dove hunting,” he said.

Another bill, he said, would place “restrictions on people’s ability to carry in any public place whatsoever.”

Although these measures have passed both houses of the General Assembly, they still require Governor Abigail Spanberger’s signature before becoming law.

King George County joins numerous localities across Virginia that have adopted similar resolutions, reaffirming their public stance on Second Amendment protections.