Allowing Child Access to Firearms in Virginia

Allowing Child Access to Firearms in Virginia is a Crime Punished with up to 12 Months in Jail

There have been many changes to firearm laws in Virginia recently. One change is the penalty for recklessly leaving a loaded and unsecured firearm in a manner that endangers a child under the age of 14. For information on the penalty for Allowing Child Access to Firearms in Virginia under Va. Code §18.2-56.2, read the post below.

For more information on other changes to firearm laws in Virginia, click here.

For more information on changes to other criminal laws in Virginia, click here.

Allowing a Child Access to Firearms in Virginia

It is a crime in Virginia to recklessly leave a loaded and unsecured firearm in such a manner as to endanger the life or limb of a child under the age of 14.

Penalty for Allowing a Child Access to Firearms in Virginia

Previously, allowing a child access to a firearm in Virginia was a Class 3 misdemeanor. It was punished with a fine up to $500 and was not punished with any jail time. Since the change in the law took effect, this crime is now a Class 1 misdemeanor, which is punished with up to 12 months in jail and a fine up to $2,500.

When Did This Change in Law Take Effect?

This change in the law took effect on July 1, 2020, in addition to all of the other changes to criminal laws in Virginia.

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