Allowing Children Access to Firearms in Virginia
April 2, 2021 by Jean Humbrecht
There are many changes to firearm laws in Virginia taking effect in 2020. One major change is the penalty for the charge of 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 Children Access to Firearms in Virginia under Va. Code §18.2-56.2, read the post below.
Click here for more information on other changes to gun laws in Virginia.
Click here for more information on changes to other criminal laws in Virginia.
Allowing Children Access to Firearms in Virginia
Allowing Children Access to Firearms in Virginia is a Crime
It is a crime to recklessly leave a loaded and unsecured firearm in such a manner as to endanger the life or limb of a child under 14. This code section also criminalizes knowingly authorizing a child under 12 to use a firearm unless under the supervision of an adult. Both of these offenses are Class 1 misdemeanors.
Penalty for Allowing Children Access to Firearms in Virginia
Previously, this offense was charged as a Class 3 misdemeanor. Class 3 misdemeanors in Virginia are punished with fines up to $500 and no jail time. A violation of this code section is now a Class 1 misdemeanor, which is punished with up to 12 months in jail and a fine up to $2,500.
When Does This Change in Law Take Effect?
This change in the law will take effect on July 1, 2020, in addition to all of the other changes to criminal and other laws in Virginia.
To see a full list of all of the changes coming to Virginia laws in July 1, 2020, click here.
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